fumigate

Definition

To disinfect, purify, or rid of vermin with the fumes of certain chemicals.

Etymology

First attested in 1530; borrowed from Latin fūmigātus, perfect passive participle of fūmigō (see -ate (verb-forming suffix)), from fūmus (“smoke”).

Example Sentences

• "They fumigated the Church with burnt wool and feathers instead of incense, put foul water into the holy-water basins, and celebrated a parody on the Church-service, the mock Abbot officiating at the altar; […]"
• "‘Pest control are coming too. They’ll be fumigating the place.’"