Definition

1. Noun:
   • A white crystalline powder used as an agricultural insecticide: Lindane is a chemical compound, specifically an organochlorine, historically employed to control insect pests on crops and livestock. Its use is now heavily restricted or banned in many countries due to its toxicity and environmental persistence.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The farmer applied lindane to protect the cotton crop from bollworms.
  • Due to its harmful effects, the production and agricultural use of lindane have been phased out.

Advanced Usage

• In Environmental and Medical Contexts: While its agricultural use is primary, "lindane" is also known for its former use in pharmaceutical treatments for lice and scabies.
  • Lindane lotion was once a common prescription for scabies.

Variants and Related Words

• Gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane (γ-HCH): This is the technical chemical name for lindane.
• Organochlorine insecticide: This is the class of chemicals to which lindane belongs.

Synonyms

• Insecticide: A general term for a substance used to kill insects.
• Pesticide: A broader term for a substance used to destroy pests.

Notes on Usage

• The word "lindane" is typically used in technical, agricultural, historical, or regulatory contexts. It is not a common word in everyday conversation. When used, it often carries connotations of controversy due to its environmental and health impacts. It is almost exclusively used as a mass noun (e.g., "application of lindane," not "a lindane").

Noun

1. a white crystalline powder used as an agricultural insecticide