toxins

Cultural  

1. Poisonous substances, consisting mainly of protein, that are a by-product of metabolism in certain organisms. Toxins that enter the body through a bacterial infection can be very harmful and can result in diseases such as tetanus and botulism.

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Example Sentences

And on top of that: fishing, boating, mineral extraction, and protection from underground toxins that could blanket Utah’s most heavily populated area and drive everyone away—not just from Box Elder, but from the state altogether.

From Slate • Jun. 1, 2026

When hypergolic propellants burn, they release highly carcinogenic toxins and can cause suffocation and mutate a person’s DNA.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

Their bite, which injects toxins, is executed for two reasons: to subdue their prey and to defend themselves, according to the California Poison Control System.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

They interfere with a tiny, syringe-like structure on the surface of cholera bacteria that is used to inject toxins into nearby cells.

From Science Daily • Apr. 7, 2026

They cut HeLa cells apart and exposed them to endless toxins, radiation, and infections.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot

Related Words

• contamination
• germ
• infection
• venom
• virus