pest
|pest|
B2
/pɛst/
harmful organism
Etymology
Etymology Information
'pest' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'pestis,' where 'pestis' meant 'plague or pestilence.'
Historical Evolution
'pestis' transformed into the French word 'peste,' and eventually became the modern English word 'pest' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'plague or pestilence,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'harmful organism or annoying person.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an organism, typically an insect or small animal, that is harmful or destructive to crops, livestock, or humans.
The farmer used pesticides to control the pests in his fields.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/12 16:06