Definition of curare
1 : a complex poison of South American Indians used on arrow tips that causes muscle relaxation and paralysis, includes various substances of plant and animal origin, and typically contains an alkaloid extracted from one of two South American vines (Strychnos toxifera of the family Loganiaceae or Chondodendron tomentosum of the family Menispermaceae) as the primary active ingredient
2 : an extract containing one of the primary alkaloid constituents (such as tubocurarine) of curare
Explore M-W
Recent Examples of curare from the Web
-
Poison frogs, also known as poison dart frogs, belong to a diverse group that is commonly associated with curare and other toxins, with which indigenous people have historically laced their hunting spears.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'curare.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of curare
Portuguese & Spanish curare, from Carib kurari
Medical Dictionary
curare
Medical Definition of curare
: a dried aqueous extract especially of a vine (as Strychnos toxifera of the family Loganiaceae or Chondodendron tomentosum of the family Menispermaceae) that produces muscle relaxation and is used in arrow poisons by South American Indians—compare tubocurarine
Learn More about curare
-
See words that rhyme with curare Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about curare
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up curare? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!