diquat: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Specialized / Technical
Quick answer
What does “diquat” mean?
A non-selective contact herbicide used for weed control.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A non-selective contact herbicide used for weed control.
An organic chemical compound (diquat dibromide) belonging to the bipyridylium group, primarily used as a desiccant and herbicide to control broadleaf weeds and aquatic vegetation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is identical and highly technical in both regions; the product is known by its international trademark.
Connotations
Negative environmental and health connotations due to its toxicity.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general language, used exclusively in professional or regulatory contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “diquat” in a Sentence
Noun: subject of 'be applied'Noun: object of 'apply', 'use', 'spray'Noun: modified by 'herbicide'Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “diquat” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- diquat-based spray
American English
- diquat-treated field
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in agrochemical sales and regulatory discussions.
Academic
Appears in environmental science, toxicology, and agricultural research papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Standard term in agricultural extension, crop management, and environmental regulation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “diquat”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “diquat”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “diquat”
- Misspelling as 'diquot' or 'dyquat'.
- Incorrectly using it as a verb (e.g., 'to diquat the weeds').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a professional-grade, highly toxic herbicide not recommended for amateur use.
Diquat is a fast-acting contact herbicide that kills plant tissue on contact, while glyphosate is systemic and translocated throughout the plant.
Yes, its use is banned or severely restricted in several jurisdictions, including the European Union and parts of Asia, due to health and environmental concerns.
Yes, specific formulations are registered for aquatic weed control, but this is heavily regulated due to toxicity to aquatic life.
A non-selective contact herbicide used for weed control.
Diquat is usually specialized / technical in register.
Diquat: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdaɪkwɒt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdaɪkwɑːt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'DIE-QUICK-plant' -> DIQUAT kills plants quickly.
Conceptual Metaphor
ERADICATOR (a substance that completely removes unwanted life).
Practice
Quiz
In which industry is the term 'diquat' primarily used?