envenomation

noun

en·​ven·​om·​ation in-ˌve-nə-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce envenomation (audio)
en-
: an act or instance of poisoning by venom (as of a snake or spider)
envenomate transitive verb

Examples of envenomation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Pit viper envenomations may need to be treated with antivenom, depending on the severity of the bite. Charlotte Observer, 8 June 2026 The authors of the study identified two distinct bites: A slashing bite, which transfers minimal venom A sustained chewing grip, which is where envenomation becomes serious In other words, the severity of a Gila monster bite is directly proportional to how long the lizard holds on. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 3 June 2026 Victims of envenomation usually succumb to respiratory failure, as the diaphragm fails to function. Encyclopedia Britannica, 6 Mar. 2026 Indeed, most envenomation among humans occurs on the palms and fingers. Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 June 2025 In initial tests, their anti-cytotoxin candidate didn’t reduce skin lesions associated with envenomation, so the researchers ceased testing it. Lauren Leffer, Popular Science, 15 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of envenomation was in 1902

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Cite this Entry

“Envenomation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/envenomation. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.

Medical Definition

envenomation

noun
en·​ven·​om·​ation in-ˌven-ə-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce envenomation (audio)
: an act or instance of impregnating with a venom (as of a snake or spider)
envenomate transitive verb
envenomated; envenomating
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