Poison

Definition

The term "poison" describes a substance that can cause harm, illness, or death when introduced to a living organism.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɔɪ.zən/
• Respelling: POY-zuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɔɪ.zən/
• Respelling: POY-zuhn

Etymology

The word "poison" originates from the Latin "potio," meaning "a drink" or "potion," which transitioned into Old French as "poison," referring to a harmful potion or substance. It entered Middle English with the same meaning.

Derivatives

• Poisonous (adjective)
• Antipoison (noun)
• Poisoner (noun)
• Poisoning (noun)
• Nonpoisonous (adjective)

Synonyms

• Toxin
• Venom
• Contaminant

Antonyms

• Antidote
• Cure
• Elixir

Usage

The term "poison" is used to describe harmful substances or the act of harming someone using such substances. For example, "The mushroom contains a deadly poison" or "He tried to poison the water supply."

Related Terms

• Toxin: A poisonous substance produced by living organisms.
• Antidote: A remedy used to counteract poison.
• Venom: Poison secreted by animals such as snakes or spiders.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A substance that causes harm or death: Refers to chemicals or compounds that are toxic to living organisms.
  • Example: "The laboratory analyzed the poison found in the water."

Verb

• To administer poison to someone or something: Refers to the act of harming or killing with toxic substances.
  • Example: "She was accused of attempting to poison her rival."
• To contaminate or taint: Refers to making something harmful or unusable.
  • Example: "The industrial waste poisoned the river."