# abrin

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abrin
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a very dangerous poison found in the seeds of a plant called the jequirity. It is much more powerful than many other poisons and can be deadly even in tiny amounts.

For teachers: a potent protein toxin found in the seeds of the jequirity plant (Abrus precatorius). It is one of the most toxic substances known to science, with a lethal dose measured in micrograms.

## Examples

- The seeds contain abrin, which is extremely dangerous to touch.
- Scientists study abrin to understand how toxins can be neutralized before they enter the human bloodstream.
- While abrin is significantly more toxic than ricin, its molecular structure allows it to evade certain cellular defenses, making it a subject of intense interest in biochemical warfare research.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.