adj
venomous
VEH-nuh-muhs
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
Word Forms
more venomous comparative, most venomous superlative
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The _____ snake is common in the desert regions of the country.
Etymology
From Old French venimos, from venim ("venom") plus the adjective suffix -os.