venom
UK: ˈvɛnəm | US: ˈvɛnəm
n. a toxic substance secreted by animals (e.g., snakes, spiders)
n. (figurative) malice or spite in speech or behavior
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The word "venom" traces back to Latin venenum, meaning "poison" or "drug." Over time, it evolved through Old French venim into Middle English, retaining its core meaning of a toxic substance. The figurative sense of "malice" emerged from the metaphorical association of poison with harmful intent. The morpheme ven- preserves the original Latin root, while -om is a phonetic remnant without independent meaning.
The snake's venom can paralyze its prey within minutes.
Her words were filled with venom, hurting everyone who listened.
Scientists extracted venom from the spider for medical research.
He glared at her with undisguised venom.
Antivenom is used to counteract the effects of snake venom.