as in poison
a substance that by chemical action can kill or injure a living thing
read a pamphlet on the toxin responsible for botulism, a food poisoning that can cause paralysis and even death in some cases
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Recent Examples of toxin
Major organs start to shut down – the barriers that separate the gut from the rest of the intestines can become more porous, leaking deadly toxins into the bloodstream and the heart fails.
—
Taylor Ward,
CNN Money,
24 June 2026
Normally that barrier lets nutrients through while blocking bacteria and toxins.
—
Ryan Brennan,
Sacbee.com,
24 June 2026
That painful toxin is only contained in their specialized spines, though, so as long as those are clipped off, there is no risk to consuming them.
—
Rachel Nuwer,
Condé Nast Traveler,
24 June 2026
The cane toad, also known as the bufo toad or the marine toad, is known for the large, poisonous glands behind its eyes that secrete toxins when it’s touched.
—
Amaia Gavica,
Miami Herald,
23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for toxin
Taylor Ward,
CNN Money,
24 June 2026
Normally that barrier lets nutrients through while blocking bacteria and toxins.
—
Ryan Brennan,
Sacbee.com,
24 June 2026
That painful toxin is only contained in their specialized spines, though, so as long as those are clipped off, there is no risk to consuming them.
—
Rachel Nuwer,
Condé Nast Traveler,
24 June 2026
The cane toad, also known as the bufo toad or the marine toad, is known for the large, poisonous glands behind its eyes that secrete toxins when it’s touched.
—
Amaia Gavica,
Miami Herald,
23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for toxin
Recent Examples of Synonyms for toxin
Noun
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That second episode was The Lion and the Rose, Joffrey and Margaery’s poison-interrupted wedding.
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Rather than relying solely on poison, the researchers recommend combining multiple control methods, including sealing entry points, improving sanitation, removing food sources and using traps.
Noun
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At the same time, the Trump administration has taken steps to roll back regulations on emissions from industrial facilities, such as mercury and other toxics emitted from coal plants.
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Portside residents face higher cancer risk from air toxics than 93% of the nation.
Noun
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Speaking with Seacoast Online, part of the USA TODAY Network, three years after his diagnosis, Hall said the symptoms of the disease can come and go.
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While bedbugs are not known to spread or transmit disease, the Environmental Protection Agency considers the parasitic insects a pest that can cause other public health issues such as allergic reactions, secondary infections and mental health impacts on those living in infested homes.
Noun
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One common misconception is that lionfish are inedible because of their venom.
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Allergic reactions and anaphylaxis have been reported in patients using bee venom therapy.
Cite this Entry
“Toxin.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/toxin. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.
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