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noun

ricin

REYE-sihn

Ricin (noun) means a highly poisonous protein extracted from castor beans. Example: “Even a tiny amount of ricin can be fatal if ingested.”

noun
1
A highly poisonous protein extracted from castor beans.
"Even a tiny amount of ricin can be fatal if ingested."

How to use ricin

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA deadly poison made from castor beans.

Common pairings
ricin poisoning trace amounts of ricin
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Even a tiny amount of _____ can be fatal if ingested.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin ricinus, the name of the castor-oil plant the poison is extracted from.

Origin: Latin

ricin toxin

Frequently asked questions

What does “ricin” mean?

The word “ricin” means a highly poisonous protein extracted from castor beans. In plain terms, a deadly poison made from castor beans.

How do you pronounce “ricin”?

“Ricin” is pronounced REYE-sihn (/ˈɹaɪsɪn/ in IPA).

How do you use “ricin” in a sentence?

Here is “ricin” used in a sentence: “Even a tiny amount of ricin can be fatal if ingested.”

What part of speech is “ricin”?

“Ricin” is a noun.

Where does the word “ricin” come from?

The word “ricin” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Latin ricinus, the name of the castor-oil plant the poison is extracted from.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial