Synonyms for

Poisonous

Verb / ˈpɔɪzʌnʌs / Another word for poisonous — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

capable of causing injury or death if taken into the body

Synonyms & similar words

toxicant vicious venomous toxic venomous lethal deadly harmful noxious virulent dangerous destructive injurious malignant pernicious baneful fatal poison noxious corrosive pestilent venomous baleful

Synonyms by register

Formal

toxic venomous deleterious noxious

Informal

bad sickly nasty

Literary

baleful pestilent

Antonyms

harmless innocuous safe non-toxic edible wholesome

Common collocations

  • poisonous snake
  • poisonous plant
  • poisonous gas
  • poisonous substance
  • poisonous mushroom
  • highly poisonous
  • extremely poisonous

Word family

noun poison
verb poison
adjective poisonous
adverb poisonously

Usage note

While 'venomous' is often used interchangeably, it specifically refers to poisons delivered through a bite or sting. 'Poisonous' refers to any substance that is harmful if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed.

Example sentences

  1. The berries on that bush are poisonous, so do not eat them.
  2. The snake's bite is poisonous and can make you very sick.
  3. Cleaning products can be poisonous if you drink them.
  4. The spider's venom is poisonous and can kill insects.
  5. Some mushrooms are poisonous and can make you very sick.

Quotes

  • The most poisonous ideas and schools of thought grow from the root of all evil: the belief that human beings are born with nothing in common.
  • The most poisonous people come disguised as friends and family.
  • The most poisonous people carry their own insecurities with them and end up poisoning your mind as well.

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