poisonous

/ˈpɔɪzənəs/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Containing sufficient poison to be dangerous to touch or ingest.

Adjective

Examples

While highly poisonous to dogs, this substance is completely harmless if ingested by humans.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Of an animal such as a snake or spider, or parts of its body: producing a toxin intended for defensive or offensive use which is usually injected into an enemy or prey by biting or stinging; hence, of a bite or sting: injecting poison.

Adjective

Examples

Poisonous snakes should only be handled by experienced professionals.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “poisonous” mean?

Containing sufficient poison to be dangerous to touch or ingest.

Is “poisonous” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.