noun
ricin
RYE-sin/ˈraɪsɪn/
A highly poisonous protein found in castor beans.
The castor beans beside the poison vial naturally contain ricin.
Etymology
The plant name ricinus identifies the castor plant as the poison's source. Its deeper origin is uncertain; a connection with Latin ricinus, 'tick,' is only tentative.
In context
Ricin is a new and little-known poison derived from the shell of the castor-oil bean.
More examples
- Even a small amount of ricin can cause severe poisoning.
- Laboratory tests confirm that the sample contains ricin.
- Ricin is a protein, not a living organism.
Forms
ricin
Similar words
- toxin
- A broader term for poisons produced by living organisms.
- poison
- Any poisonous substance, not specifically a protein from castor beans.