Definition

Something that can cause harm or death, especially because it is poisonous or harmful to health.

Example

The factory was fined for dumping toxic waste into the river.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I read that some plants can be really toxic if you touch them.

Yeah, I heard about that too! Which ones should we avoid?

I think things like poison ivy are super toxic to the skin.

Good to know! I’ll be more careful when I’m hiking.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A harmful substance that can cause injury or illness to living things.

Example

The factory was fined for releasing toxic waste into the river.

Conversation

Did you hear about that factory that dumped a lot of toxic waste into the river?

Yeah, it’s really concerning how many fish have died because of it.

I can't believe they would be so careless with something so toxic.

Root Explanation

Toxic → It is derived from the Latin word "toxicum" (meaning poison) and the Greek word "toxikon" (meaning poison for arrows). The word "toxic" refers to something that is poisonous or harmful.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'toxic' as relating to 'poison' — both the Latin 'toxicum' and Greek 'toxikon' connect to harmful substances.

Visually Confused Words