What does "poisoned" mean?

1. (containing poison) containing a dangerous substance that can make you sick or kill you. 2. (harmful or toxic atmosphere) having a very bad or harmful effect on a situation or a relationship.

poisoned

adj.

US //ˈpɔɪzənd// UK //pˈɔɪzənd// poi·soned

1 containing poison (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

containing a dangerous substance that can make you sick or kill you.

containing or treated with a toxic substance; often used to describe weapons or food.

Example

The hunter used poisoned arrows to catch his prey in the jungle.

Example

The forensic team identified traces of a poisoned substance on the rim of the glass found at the crime scene.
- harmless
- non toxic
2 harmful or toxic atmosphere (adj.)
C1 Advanced Literary

having a very bad or harmful effect on a situation or a relationship.

metaphorically corrupted or made extremely unpleasant; describing a toxic social or professional environment.

Example

The constant lies created a poisoned atmosphere in the office.

Example

The political discourse has become so poisoned by misinformation that compromise between the two parties now seems impossible.
- healthy
- positive

Idioms1 entry

01
poisoned chalice
Something which is initially regarded as advantageous but which is later recognized to be disadvantageous or harmful; an apparently beneficial or benign instrument or scheme for causing death or harm.

Last updated June 20, 2026