What does "venom" mean?

1. (animal poison) the poison that some animals, like snakes or scorpions, use to protect themselves or kill their food. 2. (bitter hatred) a strong feeling of anger, hate, or meanness in the way someone speaks.

Is it correct to say "The mushroom has a deadly venom."?

No — say "The mushroom is poisonous.". Use 'venom' for toxins injected by animals (bites/stings). Use 'poison' for things that are harmful if you touch or eat them.

venom

US //ˈvɛnəm// UK //vˈɛnəm// ven·om

1 animal poison (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Science

the poison that some animals, like snakes or scorpions, use to protect themselves or kill their food.

a toxic substance secreted by certain animals and typically injected into prey or aggressors by biting or stinging.

Example

The snake uses its venom to paralyze small animals before eating them.

Example

Researchers are studying the chemical properties of spider venom to develop more effective pain-relief medications for chronic conditions.
- toxin
- poison
- antivenom
- antidote
Pitfall

The mushroom has a deadly venom.

The mushroom is poisonous.

Use 'venom' for toxins injected by animals (bites/stings). Use 'poison' for things that are harmful if you touch or eat them.
2 bitter hatred (n.)
C1 Advanced Literary

a strong feeling of anger, hate, or meanness in the way someone speaks.

extreme malice or spiteful energy expressed in speech, writing, or behavior.

Example

There was so much venom in his voice that I felt scared to answer.

Example

The political debate was characterized by personal attacks and a level of venom that shocked even the most cynical observers.
- kindness
- benevolence

Origin

From Middle English venym, from Old French venim, from Vulgar Latin venīmen, from Early Medieval Latin venīnum, from Classical Latin venēnum (“drug; poison; a charm”), ultimately derived from Proto-Indo-European wenh₁- (“to love”). Doublet of venin and venene.

Word family

Nounvenom
Adjectivevenomous