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Definition of poisoning

poisoning

/ˈpɔɪzənɪŋ/
poi · son · ing
Adverb:poisonously
•
Plural:poisonings
•
Adjective:poisonous
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poisoning Lexical Profile

poisoning Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The action of administering poison to a person or animal, or the clinical state of illness caused by ingesting, inhaling, or absorbing a toxic substance.

Example

"The emergency room doctors quickly treated the patient for severe carbon monoxide poisoning."

2

The act of contaminating, corrupting, or ruining an environment, relationship, or system.

Example

"Industrial runoff resulted in the gradual poisoning of the local river ecosystem."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

poison ivy
poison oak
poisoner
poisoning
poisonous
poisonously
poke

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the verb 'poison' plus the gerund-forming suffix '-ing'. The root word derives from Old French 'poison' (a drink or potion, especially a lethal draught), ultimately from Latin 'potio' (a drink), which shares its origin with the word 'potion'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Poisoning. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/poisoning
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