Arsenic

/ˈɑːr.sə.nɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A toxic element (chemical symbol As) that occurs in the environment and is used in various industrial processes.

The water in the region was found to have high levels of arsenic, making it unsafe for consumption.

A metalloid that is used in semiconductors and in the manufacture of certain alloys.

Researchers are exploring the use of arsenic in new electronic devices due to its unique properties.

A poison derived from arsenic compounds that has historically been used in homicides.

The detective suspected that arsenic was the poison used in the mysterious death of the victim.

From Middle English 'arsenike', from Latin 'arsenicum', from Greek 'arsenikon', meaning 'potent'.

arsenic and old lace:

A reference to a play and film, implying something deceptively harmless.

arsenic hour:

A period associated with danger or toxicity.

a spoonful of arsenic:

Implying that something harmful is hidden within something appealing.

Deadly poison.

He's as dangerous as arsenic in a glass of water.

Something toxic or harmful.

That gossip is pure arsenic; it will ruin your reputation.