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Poison: meaning, definitions and examples

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poison

 

[ˈpɔɪzən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

dangerous substance

A substance that is capable of causing illness or death when introduced or absorbed into the body.

Synonyms

toxicant, toxin, venom.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
poison

Use this word to describe any substance that can cause harm or death when introduced into a living organism. It is a general term and often used in a broad sense.

  • The food was laced with poison
  • Certain chemicals used in agriculture can act as poison to pests
toxin

Refers to a poisonous substance produced naturally by living organisms, such as bacteria, plants, or animals. It is often mentioned in medical or biological contexts.

  • The bacteria produce a toxin that can lead to severe illness
  • Snake bites can introduce deadly toxins into the bloodstream
venom

Used specifically for toxic substances that are injected by animals through bites or stings. Commonly used when discussing snakes, spiders, and other venomous creatures.

  • The snake's venom can be fatal if not treated quickly
  • The scorpion's venom caused immense pain and swelling
toxicant

This term is used in scientific or technical contexts to refer to a toxic substance, usually man-made, that causes poisoning. It is more formal and specific.

  • The laboratory tested for various toxicants in the water
  • Industrial waste often contains dangerous toxicants

Examples of usage

  • The poison was hidden in the drink.
  • She was poisoned by the toxic chemicals in the air.
  • The snake's venom is a deadly poison.
Context #2 | Verb

to harm with poison

To administer poison to (a person or animal) in order to kill or harm.

Synonyms

contaminate, pollute, taint.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
poison

Use 'poison' when referring to substances that can cause harm or death when absorbed by living organisms. It is often used in the context of deliberate harmful acts or naturally toxic substances.

  • She accidentally swallowed poison
  • Some mushrooms are poisonous
taint

Choose 'taint' when referring to something that is spoiled or damaged, often in a subtle way. It can be used to describe both physical contamination and reputational harm.

  • The scandal tainted his reputation
  • The food was tainted with an unpleasant smell
contaminate

The term 'contaminate' is appropriate when something harmful or undesirable is introduced into a substance, environment, or space, affecting its purity or safety. It can apply to a wide range of scenarios, from food to the environment.

  • The water supply was contaminated with bacteria
  • Chemicals spilled on the ground can contaminate the soil
pollute

Use 'pollute' when referring to the introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment. It implies a negative impact on natural resources like air, water, or land.

  • Factories that pollute the air with smoke
  • Plastic waste polluting the oceans is a growing concern

Examples of usage

  • He tried to poison his rival's drink.
  • The murder was committed by poisoning the victim.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'potio,' meaning 'a drink,' indicating how some poisons were historically administered.
  • In the Middle Ages, 'poison' was often associated with aristocracy, used in political intrigues and betrayals.

Science

  • Toxins, a type of poison, can come from natural sources like plants or animals, as well as synthetic ones created in labs.
  • Poisons can affect different systems in the body; for example, some target the nervous system while others damage the liver.

Psychology

  • Research shows that the fear of toxic substances can activate a strong psychological response, including anxiety.
  • The concept of 'poison' can metaphorically apply to negative thoughts or relationships that can 'poison' one's outlook.

Literature

  • Poison has appeared in countless classic stories, such as Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet' where poison symbolizes tragic love.
  • Many heroes and villains in literature use poison as a tool, reflecting its dual nature in good versus evil.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV, poison is often portrayed in dramatic fashion, such as in espionage films where it becomes a plot twist.
  • Songs and literature sometimes use 'poison' metaphorically to discuss toxic relationships or emotions.

Translations

Translations of the word "poison" in other languages:

🇵🇹 veneno

🇮🇳 ज़हर

🇩🇪 Gift

🇮🇩 racun

🇺🇦 отрута

🇵🇱 trucizna

🇯🇵 毒 (どく, doku)

🇫🇷 poison

🇪🇸 veneno

🇹🇷 zehir

🇰🇷 독 (dok)

🇸🇦 سم

🇨🇿 jed

🇸🇰 jed

🇨🇳 毒药 (dúyào)

🇸🇮 strup

🇮🇸 eitur

🇰🇿 у

🇬🇪 შხამი

🇦🇿 zəhər

🇲🇽 veneno

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,731 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.