Definition

Able to cause harm or death because it contains poison; toxic.

Example

Some mushrooms are poisonous and should not be eaten.

Conversation

Did you know that some mushrooms are poisonous?

Really? I had no idea!

Yeah, it's important to be careful when foraging for them.

Totally! I wouldn't want to accidentally eat something poisonous.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Poisonous → It is formed from "poison" (from Old French *poison*, meaning a drink or potion) and "-ous" (meaning full of). The word "poisonous" means full of poison or having the quality of being toxic.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'full of poison' — that's what 'poisonous' means.

Visually Confused Words