adjective

poisonous

Containing poison or capable of causing harm through toxic substances.

Some poisonous mushrooms look almost identical to varieties people eat.

Etymology

Poison developed from potion or drink to a harmful substance administered or encountered. Poisonous describes something that contains or acts as such a substance.

More examples

  • Burning this plastic releases poisonous fumes into the air.
  • These berries are poisonous to dogs.
  • She wears gloves when handling poisonous chemicals.

Forms

poisonous · more poisonous · most poisonous

poison noun — A substance that harms or kills living organisms.

Similar words

toxic
Often describes harmful chemicals or their effects on living organisms.
venomous
Specifically describes animals that inject poison through bites or stings.