adj
C2
Proficient
venomous
VEH-nuh-muhs
Venomous (adj) means Capable of injecting venom, typically by biting or stinging. Example: “The venomous snake is common in the desert regions of the country.”
adj
1
Capable of injecting venom, typically by biting or stinging.
"The venomous snake is common in the desert regions of the country."
2
Full of spite or malice; deliberately hurtful.
"He made a venomous remark about his former business partner."
How to use venomous
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishProducing venom, or — figuratively — full of nasty, spiteful intent.
Common mistake
Venomous animals bite or sting to deliver their toxin; poisonous animals are harmful if touched or eaten — a snake is venomous, but a poison dart frog is poisonous.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
venomous snake
venomous remark
venomous attack
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more venomous
- Superlative
- most venomous
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ snake is common in the desert regions of the country.
Etymology
From Old French venimos, from venim ("venom") plus the adjective suffix -os.
Related words
Rhymes for venomous
See all rhymes for venomous →Frequently asked questions
What does “venomous” mean?
The word “venomous” means capable of injecting venom, typically by biting or stinging. In plain terms, producing venom, or — figuratively — full of nasty, spiteful intent.
How do you pronounce “venomous”?
“Venomous” is pronounced VEH-nuh-muhs (/ˈvɛnəməs/ in IPA).
How do you use “venomous” in a sentence?
Here is “venomous” used in a sentence: “The venomous snake is common in the desert regions of the country.”
What part of speech is “venomous”?
“Venomous” is an adjective.
Where does the word “venomous” come from?
The word “venomous” comes from Old French. From Old French venimos, from venim ("venom") plus the adjective suffix -os.
How many meanings does “venomous” have?
“Venomous” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: capable of injecting venom, typically by biting or stinging.
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