poison ivy
• noun
North American A North American climbing vine or shrub (Toxicodendron radicans) characterized by leaves arranged in groups of three, known for secreting urushiol, an oil that causes a severe allergic skin reaction.
"While hiking through the dense woods, the guide warned the children to stay on the trail to avoid the patches of poison ivy."
North American The severely itchy, blistering rash or contact dermatitis caused by touching the resin of the poison ivy plant.
"After clearing brush from the backyard without wearing gloves, he developed a bad case of poison ivy on his forearms."
Word Nuance & Usage
The term is used interchangeably in everyday English to refer to both the toxic plant itself and the subsequent allergic contact dermatitis caused by touching it.
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Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.