poison
/pwa.zɔ̃/A toxic substance that causes harm, illness, or death when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
Les champignons vénéneux contiennent un poison mortel.
Poisonous mushrooms contain deadly poison.
Le poison a été utilisé comme arme dans l'histoire.
Poison has been used as a weapon in history.
The term can also refer to something harmful in a non-literal sense, such as 'poisonous words.'
A substance used to kill pests or unwanted organisms.
Les agriculteurs utilisent des poisons pour éliminer les insectes nuisibles.
Farmers use poisons to eliminate harmful insects.
In this context, it is often referred to as 'pesticide' or 'insecticide.'
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💡Pro Tip
Literal vs. Figurative Use
'Poison' is often used literally to describe toxic substances, but it can also be used figuratively to describe something harmful or destructive.
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid Confusion with 'Venin'
'Poison' refers to toxic substances ingested or absorbed, while 'venin' refers to venom injected by animals like snakes or spiders.
📖Word Origin
From Old French 'poison,' derived from Latin 'pōtiōnem,' meaning 'a drink,' later associated with toxic substances.
📝Usage Notes
In French, 'poison' can also refer to a child in a playful or affectionate way, though this usage is less common.