How Do You Spell SPERMICIDAL?

Pronunciation: [spˌɜːmɪsˈa͡ɪdə͡l] (IPA)

The word "spermicidal" is spelled with nine letters and is pronounced as /spɜːˈmɪsɪdl/. The IPA phonetic transcription breaks down each sound of the word into symbols that represent specific vowel and consonant sounds. The "s" sound at the beginning of the word is followed by a "p" sound and then an "e" sound. The "r" and "m" in the middle of the word are pronounced separately, and the "i" and "c" sounds are also split by a vowel sound. The final syllable has a "d" sound and an "l" sound pronounced consecutively.

SPERMICIDAL Meaning and Definition

1. Spermicidal is an adjective that refers to the ability or characteristic of being capable of killing or rendering inactive sperm cells. It is commonly used to describe substances or methods that are specifically designed to prevent or inhibit the fertilization of an egg by sperm.

   Spermicidal agents are typically chemical compounds that are applied topically in the form of gels, foams, creams, or suppositories. These agents work by either immobilizing the sperm cells or damaging their structure, thus preventing them from successfully reaching and fertilizing an egg. Such substances often contain active ingredients like nonoxynol-9 or benzalkonium chloride, which have spermicidal properties.

   The use of spermicidal products can offer an additional layer of contraception when combined with other methods of birth control, such as barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms. However, it is important to note that spermicidal methods alone are generally regarded as less effective than other forms of birth control, and therefore are often recommended to be used in conjunction with another form of contraception.

   It is crucial to follow the instructions provided with spermicidal products to ensure proper and effective use. It is also important to consider personal sensitivities or allergies to the active ingredients when using spermicidal methods. Consulting with a healthcare provider is advised for the appropriate selection and usage of spermicidal products.

2. destructive to spermatozoa

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for SPERMICIDAL

• apermicidal
• zpermicidal
• xpermicidal
• dpermicidal
• epermicidal
• wpermicidal
• soermicidal
• slermicidal
• s-ermicidal
• s0ermicidal
• spwrmicidal
• spsrmicidal
• spdrmicidal
• sprrmicidal
• sparmicidal
• spirmicidal

Etymology of SPERMICIDAL

The word "spermicidal" is derived from the combination of two components: "sperm" and "-cidal".

1. "Sperm" is derived from the Latin word "sperm(a)" meaning "seed" or "semen". It can also be traced back to the Greek word "sperma" with the same meaning. In the context of reproduction, "sperm" refers to the male reproductive cells involved in fertilization.

2. "-Cidal" is a suffix derived from the Latin word "caedere", which means "to kill" or "to cut down". This suffix is commonly used in English to denote something that kills or destroys a particular entity. For example, "homicidal" refers to something that causes or relates to killing a human (homicide).

Similar spelling words for SPERMICIDAL

• spermicide,
• sperm oil,
• spermatid,
• spermatic,
• spermatocide,
• sperm whale.