Definition of ptomaine
: any of various organic bases which are formed by the action of putrefactive bacteria on nitrogenous matter and some of which are poisonous
Indulge Your Inner Word Nerd
Origin and Etymology of ptomaine
Italian ptomaina, from Greek ptōma fall, fallen body, corpse, from piptein to fall — more at feather
First Known Use: 1880
Medical Dictionary
noun
pto·maine
\ˈtō-ˌmān, tō-ˈ\
Medical Definition of ptomaine
: any of various organic bases formed by the action of putrefactive bacteria on nitrogenous matter and including some which are poisonous—compare leukomaine
Learn More about ptomaine
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up ptomaine? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!