Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Poisons Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

☠️
Add to dictionary

poisons

[ˈpɔɪzənz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

dangerous substances

Poisons are substances that can cause harm, illness, or death when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed into the body. They can be found in various forms, such as liquids, gases, or solids.

Synonyms

toxins, venoms.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
poisons

General term used for any substances that can cause harm or death when introduced to a living organism.

  • Some household cleaners are actually poisons if ingested.
  • The plant contains natural poisons that can make you sick.
toxins

Specific type of poison that is produced by living organisms, such as bacteria, plants, or animals.

  • Botulinum toxin is one of the most lethal toxins known to science.
  • Certain mushrooms contain toxins that are harmful to humans.
venoms

Toxins that are specifically injected through a bite or sting, typically by animals like snakes, spiders, or bees.

  • The cobra's venom can paralyze its prey almost instantly.
  • Some people are allergic to bee venom and can have severe reactions.

Examples of usage

  • Be careful when handling poisons, as even a small amount can be lethal.
  • She was rushed to the hospital after accidentally ingesting a poison.
  • The signs of poisoning may vary depending on the type of poison and the amount consumed.
Context #2 | Verb

to administer toxins

To poison means to introduce a harmful substance into someone's body, often with the intention of causing harm or death. Poisoning can occur through ingestion, inhalation, or absorption.

Synonyms

contaminate, taint.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
poisons

Use it when referring to substances that can cause illness or death when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed by organisms. It is often used in the context of harmful chemicals or toxins.

  • The factory was shut down because it was found to be releasing poisons into the river
taint

Best used when referring to a slight or subtle influence or corruption that damages the quality or integrity of something. Unlike 'contaminate,' 'taint' usually implies a less severe level of impurity. It can also be used in a figurative sense.

  • Her reputation was tainted by the scandal
contaminate

This is appropriate when something unwelcome or harmful is introduced into a substance, making it impure or unclean. It is often used regarding food, water, or environments.

  • The water supply was contaminated by industrial waste

Examples of usage

  • The assassin used a poisoned needle to eliminate the target.
  • The food was deliberately poisoned to harm the guests at the banquet.
  • She was accused of poisoning her husband to collect the insurance money.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'poison' comes from the Latin word 'potionem,' meaning 'a drink,' highlighting how some harmful substances were once taken as drinks.
  • Throughout history, many cultures have used poisons as weapons or tools for assassination, making them infamous in various historical narratives.
  • In ancient times, people believed that certain plants and minerals could ward off evil, leading to the dual use of some poisonous substances in medicine and magic.

Science

  • Not all poisons are deadly; some can be used in controlled doses to treat illnesses, like chemotherapy drugs for cancer.
  • There is a field of study called toxicology that focuses on understanding how different substances affect living organisms.
  • Venoms from snakes and spiders are a type of poison specifically designed to immobilize prey, showcasing nature's complex use of toxins.

Pop Culture

  • Poison has been a popular theme in literature, from Shakespeare’s 'Romeo and Juliet' to Agatha Christie’s mysteries.
  • In movies and television, poisons are often portrayed as a clever way to execute a plot twist or a villain's plan.
  • The term 'poisoned chalice' is used to describe a situation that appears attractive but is actually dangerous, commonly referenced in politics.

Psychology

  • The concept of poison extends to negative emotions or toxic relationships that can harm mental health.
  • Studies have shown that the fear of poisoning has historical roots, often highlighting a deep-seated anxiety around trust and betrayal in relationships.
  • The word 'poison' is sometimes used metaphorically in therapy to describe harmful thoughts that can affect one's well-being.

Literature

  • In classic tales such as Snow White, poison is often used to signify jealousy and betrayal, creating moral lessons pervasive across cultures.
  • Many authors use poison as a symbol of hidden dangers, reflecting inner turmoil or societal issues through their characters' struggles.
  • The imagery of poison is prevalent in poetry, symbolizing the idea that beauty often comes with a dark side.

Origin of 'poisons'

The word 'poisons' originated from the Old French word 'poison', which came from the Latin word 'potio' meaning 'a drink, a poisonous drink, a draught, a potion'. The concept of poisons has been present throughout history, used in various ways from warfare to medicine. The study of toxicology has furthered our understanding of poisons and their effects on living organisms.

See also: poison, poisoning, poisonous, poisonousness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,152, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.