Fumigation

/ˌfjuːmɪˈɡeɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The process of using smoke or gas to disinfect a place and kill pests like insects or rodents.

Etymology

From Latin 'fumigare' (to smoke), combining 'fumus' (smoke) and 'agere' (to drive). The term evolved in medieval times to describe systematic pest control methods used in homes and ships.

Kelly Says

Fumigation became crucial in history for preventing plague-spreading rats and disease—entire city blocks were fumigated with sulfur smoke in the 1600s, making it one of humanity's first mass public health interventions.

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