colchicine

/ˈkɑl.kəˌsiːn/

UK: /ˈkɒl.kɪs.iːn/

KⱭL · kəsiːn (2 syllables)

English Noun

Definition

A highly toxic alkaloid, chemical formula C₂₂H₂₅NO₆, originally extracted from plants of the genus Colchicum and formerly used to treat rheumatic complaints, now used mainly in the treatment of gout.

Etymology

From colchicum + -ine.

Example Sentences

"Gloriosa superba: spectacularly beautiful climbing lily. Roots, stalks, leaves contain an acrid narcotic, superbine, as well as colchicine and choline. Three grains of colchicine are fatal. Hawaii."