toxin
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈtɑksən// UK //tˈɒksɪn// tox·in
n. a poisonous substance produced by a living thing, like a plant or an animal. It can make people or other creatures sick.
n. a poisonous substance produced within living cells or organisms. Often distinguished from synthetic poisons by its biological origin.
The snake uses a powerful toxin to paralyze its prey.
Scientists are studying how the toxin from certain mushrooms affects the human nervous system.
While some bacteria are harmless, others release a potent toxin into the bloodstream that can lead to severe systemic inflammation if not treated immediately.
From Latin toxicum, equivalent to toxi- + -in.
Usage
Often used in the plural when referring to different types of poisonous substances.