Toxic
/ˈtɒk.sɪk/noun
Harmful or poisonous, especially to living beings.
Did you know?The term 'toxic' comes from the Greek word for 'poison,' used in the context of arrows dipped in deadly substances for hunting and warfare.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
τοξικός (toxikos)
“Pertaining to poison, especially in relation to archery.”
Latin
Latin
toxicum
“Poison, especially that used in the context of arrows.”
Middle French
Old French
toxique
“Relating to poison, harmful.”
16th Century
English
toxic
“Pertaining to poisons, harmful.”
Modern English
English
toxic
“Describing substances that are harmful or deadly to living organisms.”
Explore more surprising origins