cyanide

noun

cy·​a·​nide ˈsī-ə-ˌnīd How to pronounce cyanide (audio)
-nəd
1
: a compound of cyanogen with a more electropositive element or group: such as
2

Examples of cyanide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Testing done by a professional hygienist allegedly found heavy metals, lead, cyanide and other contaminants, which would require demolition, removal of dry wall and flooring, and other repairs. Laurence Darmiento, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2025 His wife died March 18, 2023, of poisoning from cyanide and tetrahydrozoline, according to the coroner. Andi Babineau and Ray Sanchez, CNN, 14 Feb. 2025 His wife, 43-year-old Angela Craig, died on March 18, 2023, from lethal doses of cyanide and tetrahydrozoline, a decongestant found in over-the-counter eyedrops. Lauren Penington, The Denver Post, 16 Dec. 2024 In 1982, seven people, including a 12-year-old girl, died after taking over-the-counter painkillers laced with cyanide. Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cyanide

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cyanide was in 1826

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Cite this Entry

“Cyanide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cyanide. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

cyanide

noun
cy·​a·​nide ˈsī-ə-ˌnīd How to pronounce cyanide (audio)
-nəd
: a very poisonous compound consisting of carbon and nitrogen with either sodium or potassium

Medical Definition

cyanide

noun
cy·​a·​nide ˈsī-ə-ˌnīd, -nəd How to pronounce cyanide (audio)
: any of several compounds (as potassium cyanide) that contain the radical CN having a chemical valence of one, react with and inactivate respiratory enzymes, and are rapidly lethal producing drowsiness, tachycardia, coma, and finally death

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