Definition

A type of plant that is very poisonous, often found in the wild, and can cause serious harm or death if ingested.

Example

The ancient Greeks used hemlock as a method of execution.

Conversation

Did you know that hemlock is actually a poisonous plant?

Yeah, I've heard it's really dangerous if ingested.

I read that it was used in ancient times as a method of execution.

That's true! It's fascinating and terrifying at the same time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hemlock originates from Old English 'hæmloc', which refers to a type of poisonous plant. The word is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*hamalō', meaning a plant or herb, and is related to the Old Norse 'hamloki', which also refers to a type of plant. Thus, hemlock specifically denotes a poisonous herb.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word for a poisonous plant, 'hæmloc', to remember that hemlock refers to a dangerous herb.

Visually Confused Words