Carbamate
- Pronunciation
- /kar-BAM-it/
- Category
- Insecticide
- Singular
- Carbamate
- Plural
- Carbamates
Definition
A class of insecticides that act as anticholinesterases, inhibiting the enzyme cholinesterase.
Etymology
From the Latin 'carbamus', meaning 'carbon', and 'ate', signifying a derivative.
Example
Carbaryl (Sevin) is a widely used carbamate insecticide for controlling various insect pests.
Related Terms
- Cholinesterase
- Anticholinesterase
Usage Notes
Carbamates are known for their relatively low mammalian toxicity compared to other insecticide classes.