poison
UK: ˈpɔɪz(ə)n | US: ˈpɔɪz(ə)n
n. a substance that causes illness or death if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed
vt. to administer poison to; to contaminate or corrupt
The word "poison" traces back to Latin potio (a drink), reflecting its early association with liquid potions—whether medicinal or deadly. In Old French, poison initially meant any drinkable concoction, but over time, it narrowed to specifically denote toxic substances. This shift highlights how societal fears (e.g., of poisoned drinks) can reshape language. The modern spelling preserves the French form, while the meaning solidified into its lethal connotation by the 14th century.
The king was assassinated by poison in his wine.
Some plants produce poison to deter herbivores.
She accidentally poisoned the soil with chemical runoff.
Gossip can poison relationships over time.
Antidotes are developed to counteract specific poisons.