poison
poison Lexical Profile
poison Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A substance that is capable of causing the illness or death of a living organism when introduced or absorbed.
"The ancient pharmacist studied the effects of various plant-based poisons and their antidotes."
A destructive, corrupting, or harmful influence, attitude, or principle.
"Malicious gossip can act as a slow poison within a small community."
• verb
To administer a toxic substance to a person or animal, or to contaminate food, water, or air with a harmful substance.
"Industrial runoff had poisoned the river, making the water unsafe for local wildlife."
To corrupt, ruin, or pervert a person's mind, a relationship, or an atmosphere.
"Years of unresolved resentment had gradually poisoned their friendship."
• adjective
Poisonous, toxic, or venomous; containing or secreting a harmful substance (used primarily before a noun in compound names of plants or animals).
"Hikers were warned to watch out for poison ivy along the wooded trail."
Word Nuance & Usage
In biological contexts, 'poison' is absorbed, inhaled, or ingested (e.g., a poison dart frog or toxic plant), whereas 'venom' is actively injected through a bite or sting (e.g., from a snake or scorpion).
• Rhymes for poison
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Middle English, from Old French poison ('a drink, especially a medical draught or magic potion'), from Latin potio ('a drink'), derived from potare ('to drink'). It is a doublet of 'potion'.