poison

Definition

A substance that is harmful or lethal to a living organism when ingested.

Etymology

From Middle English poysoun, poyson, pusoun, from Old French poison, poisun, from Latin pōtiōnem (“drink, a draught, a poisonous draught, a potion”), from pōtō (“I drink”). See also potion and potable (from the same root). Mostly displaced native Old English ātor. See more at atter.

Example Sentences

• "Near-synonym: (loosely) venom"
• "We used a poison to kill the weeds."
• "Gossip is a malicious poison."