Poisonous
ˈpɔɪzənəs
Definitions
2 meaningsContaining or producing poison; capable of causing illness or death when introduced into the body.
ˈpɔɪzənəs
Capable of causing injury or death by chemical action.
The berries on that bush are poisonous, so don't eat them.
💡 Simply: It's like something that's really bad for you if you eat it, touch it, or get it inside your body. Imagine a frog with bright colors – it might be poisonous, meaning you shouldn’t touch it!
👶 For kids: Something is poisonous when it can make you sick or even hurt you if you touch it or eat it.
More Examples
Be careful handling those chemicals, they are highly poisonous.
The poisonous snake slithered through the undergrowth.
The effects of a poisonous substance can vary depending on the dose.
How It's Used
"The poisonous fangs of a snake inject venom."
"Certain mushrooms are poisonous if ingested."
Figuratively, having a harmful or destructive effect; malicious or spiteful.
ˈpɔɪzənəs
Having a harmful or destructive effect.
The politician launched a poisonous attack on his opponent.
💡 Simply: It can also mean something that hurts feelings or causes problems, like a mean comment that makes someone sad or a rumor that ruins a friendship.
👶 For kids: When someone is mean or says bad things that hurt others, their words can be poisonous.
More Examples
She spread poisonous gossip about her coworker.
Their constant bickering created a poisonous atmosphere in the office.
The author's poisonous pen created a vivid character.
How It's Used
"He made some poisonous remarks about his rival."
"Their poisonous relationship led to a lot of stress."
Idioms & expressions
poison the well
To discredit or undermine someone's argument or reputation by attacking them or introducing negative information before they can speak.
"Before the debate even started, his opponent tried to poison the well by spreading rumors about his past."
poison pen letter
An anonymous letter containing malicious or defamatory content.
"The celebrity received a poison pen letter filled with insults."
From Middle English *poysonous*, derived from Old French *poisonos* (poisonous), which ultimately comes from Latin *potio* (a drink, potion).
The word 'poisonous' has been in use since the 14th century, initially referring to substances that could cause harm through ingestion.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'poison' and add -ous to describe something *full of* poison.
Word Origin
"a drink, potion"