ENGLISH
REFERENCE

toxins

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈtɑksənz// UK //tˈɒksɪnz// tox·ins

n. poisonous substances produced by living things like plants, animals, or bacteria. People also use this word to talk about harmful chemicals in the environment.

n. poisonous substances produced within living cells or organisms, including bacteria, plants, and animals. In popular usage, the term often extends to any harmful chemical or pollutant.


SIMPLE

The liver helps the body filter out toxins.

CONTEXTUAL

Some snakes use powerful toxins in their venom to paralyze their prey quickly.

COMPLEX

Environmental scientists are monitoring the lake for toxins released by the recent industrial spill, as these substances can accumulate in the local fish population.

Synonyms
Usage

Usually used in the plural form when referring to various types of harmful substances.

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