Toadstool: meaning, definitions and examples

🍄
Add to dictionary

toadstool

 

[ ˈtəʊdstuːl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mushroom

A toadstool is a type of fungus that typically has a stalk and a cap, often with white spots. Some toadstools are poisonous and should not be eaten.

Synonyms

fungus, mushroom, toxic fungus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
toadstool

Refers to any type of poisonous or unfit for consumption mushroom. Typically used in a negative context to describe mushrooms that should not be eaten.

  • Be careful when picking mushrooms, as some toadstools can be deadly.
  • The forest floor was covered with toadstools, creating a picturesque yet dangerous scene.
mushroom

A general term most commonly used to describe the edible or cultivated varieties of fungi. It can also be used in a culinary context.

  • We picked fresh mushrooms from the farm to make a delicious soup.
  • The pasta was topped with savory mushrooms and a creamy sauce.
fungus

A broad term used in scientific or casual contexts to describe a wide variety of spore-producing organisms, including mushrooms, molds, yeasts, and more.

  • The bread was ruined by a green fungus that spread overnight.
  • Scientists are studying the beneficial properties of various types of fungus.
toxic fungus

Explicitly refers to fungi that are poisonous or harmful if ingested. Often used in medical, scientific, or cautionary contexts.

  • The researcher identified the sample as a toxic fungus that could cause serious illness.
  • Many hikers are warned about toxic fungi that look similar to edible mushrooms.

Examples of usage

  • It is important to be able to distinguish between edible mushrooms and toxic toadstools.
  • Toadstools can often be found growing in damp, shady areas of the forest.

Translations

Translations of the word "toadstool" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cogumelo venenoso

🇮🇳 ज़हरीला कवक

🇩🇪 Giftpilz

🇮🇩 jamur beracun

🇺🇦 отруйний гриб

🇵🇱 trujący grzyb

🇯🇵 毒キノコ (dokukinoko)

🇫🇷 champignon vénéneux

🇪🇸 hongo venenoso

🇹🇷 zehirli mantar

🇰🇷 독버섯 (dokbeoseot)

🇸🇦 فطر سام

🇨🇿 jedovatá houba

🇸🇰 jedovatá huba

🇨🇳 毒菌 (dújūn)

🇸🇮 strupena goba

🇮🇸 eitraður sveppur

🇰🇿 улы саңырауқұлақ

🇬🇪 მოწამლული სოკო

🇦🇿 zəhərli göbələk

🇲🇽 hongo venenoso

Etymology

The word 'toadstool' originated in the early 17th century and is a combination of 'toad' and 'stool', possibly due to the belief that toads would sit on these fungi. Over time, 'toadstool' has become synonymous with poisonous mushrooms and is often associated with fairy tales and folklore.

See also: toad, toady.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,422, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.