ClimateAugust 16, 2026
dicamba
dy-KAM-buh
Definition
A type of potent, volatile synthetic herbicide used to kill weeds that is highly prone to drifting onto non-target areas through the air.
Etymology
The name is a portmanteau derived from its chemical structure: 'di-' (two), 'cam' (referring to the carboxylic acid group), and '-ba' (likely derived from benzoic acid, its base structure).
In the news
In the article, dicamba is highlighted as a 'notorious' chemical that frequently drifts from its intended fields, damaging surrounding ecosystems and public spaces.
As study shows pesticides drifting onto Illinois schools and parks, residents push for better tracking
Read the full article ↗Chicago Tribune