Toxin
/ˈtɒksɪn/noun
A poisonous substance produced by living cells or organisms.
Did you know?The term 'toxin' is derived from the Greek word for 'bow' or 'arrow', highlighting the lethal connection between language and weaponry.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
τοξικόν (toxikon)
“Pertaining to poison, especially from bow poisons used on arrows.”
Late Latin
Latin
toxicum
“Poison, specifically a substance used in arrow tips.”
16th Century
English
toxin
“A term adopted to describe poisonous substances from living organisms.”
Modern English
English
toxin
“Refers broadly to any toxic substance, especially those produced by biological entities.”