toxic

Definition

Having a chemical nature that is harmful to health or lethal if consumed or otherwise entering into the body in sufficient quantities.

Etymology

Borrowed from French toxique, from Late Latin toxicus (“poisoned”), from Latin toxicum (“poison”), from Ancient Greek τοξικόν (toxikón) [φάρμακον (phármakon)] ("poison for use on arrows"), from τοξικός (toxikós, “pertaining to arrows or archery”), from τόξον (tóxon, “bow”).

Example Sentences

• "Tobacco smoke contains many toxic substances."
• "If some types of electronic waste aren’t incinerated at a high enough temperature, dioxins, which can cause cancer and developmental problems, infiltrate the food supply. Without proper safeguarding, toxic heavy metals seep into the soil and groundwater."
• "The child appeared toxic on arrival at the hospital."

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