Definition

A health condition caused by eating grain or products that are infected with a specific fungus, leading to poisoning.

Example

The farmer was concerned about ergotism affecting his rye crop.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of ergotism?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's a poisoning from eating grain infected with a certain fungus.

That sounds serious! I had no idea something like that could happen.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ergotism is derived from 'ergot' (from Latin 'ergotum', meaning a type of fungus) and the suffix '-ism' (meaning a condition or state). The term refers to the condition caused by the consumption of ergot-infected grains, leading to various symptoms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ergot' as the fungus that causes a specific 'condition' ('-ism'), helping you remember that ergotism is a condition resulting from this fungus.

Visually Confused Words