nerve gas

noun

1. any of several poison gases, derived chiefly from phosphoric acid, that weaken or paralyze the nervous system, especially that part of the system controlling respiration.

nerve gas

noun

1. (esp in chemical warfare) any of various poisonous gases that have a potentially fatal paralysing effect on the central nervous system

nerve gas

1. Any of various poisonous gases that interfere with the functioning of nerves by inhibiting the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Increased levels of acetylcholine stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to cardiac and respiratory arrest.

Word History and Origins

Origin of nerve gas¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Related Words

• mustard gas 
• poison gas 
• tear gas