destroying angel

noun

1. any of several deadly poisonous mushrooms of the genus Amanita, having a white cap and stem, white spores, and a conspicuous volva at the base of the stem.

destroying angel

noun

1. a white slender very poisonous basidiomycetous toadstool, Amanita virosa, having a pronounced volva, frilled, shaggy stalk, and sickly smell

Word History and Origins

Origin of destroying angel¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Dissension, that destroying angel of great enterprises, was busy in the Christian camp.

From Project Gutenberg

One sprang up in the footsteps of that destroying angel, Dynamite.

From Project Gutenberg

Upon this face thy name is inscribed in the convulsions of death, and will be registered by the destroying angel!

From Project Gutenberg

Beware of selfish purpose, revenge, hate; these are the Destroying Angel, sure to return to you.

From Project Gutenberg

But now they had a part to act or they would suffer with the Egyptians when the destroying angel should pass through the land.

From Project Gutenberg