defoliant
UK: diːˈfəʊliənt | US: diːˈfoʊliənt
n. a chemical agent that causes the leaves of plants to fall off or wither.
defoliant = de<remove> + foli<leaf> + ant<noun suffix>
- de (Latin prefix): meaning "remove" or "reverse."
- foli (Latin root "folium"): meaning "leaf."
- ant (noun-forming suffix): indicates an agent or substance that performs an action.
Etymology Origin:
The word "defoliant" originates from Latin components. The prefix de- negates or reverses, while folium (leaf) forms the core concept. Combined with the suffix -ant, it creates a noun denoting a substance that removes leaves. Historically, defoliants gained prominence during the 20th century, particularly in agricultural and military contexts (e.g., Agent Orange in the Vietnam War). The term logically mirrors its function: de (off) + foli (leaves) = "leaf remover."
Farmers sometimes use defoliants to prepare cotton plants for harvesting.
The military employed defoliants to clear dense jungle during the war.
Environmentalists warn about the long-term effects of defoliants on ecosystems.
This chemical acts as a defoliant by disrupting the growth of leaf cells.
Regulations restrict the use of defoliants near water sources to protect aquatic life.