venom

/'venəm/

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Explanation of the Word "Venom"

Definition: "Venom" is a noun that refers to a poisonous substance that some animals, like snakes, spiders, and scorpions, produce. This substance is used to harm other animals or to defend themselves. In a broader sense, "venom" can also describe a feeling of anger or hatred that someone expresses towards others.

Usage Instructions:

• "Venom" is primarily used as a noun.
• When talking about the poison from animals, it is often used in the context of nature or biology.
• When used to describe feelings, it can be used in conversations about emotions, relationships, or conflicts.

Examples:

1. Biological Context:

   • "The snake bit the mouse and injected it with venom."

2. Emotional Context:

   • "Her words were full of venom when she spoke about her rival."

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or poetry, "venom" can be used metaphorically to describe harsh, spiteful speech or actions.
• Example: "The politician's speech was filled with venom, attacking his opponents without mercy."

Word Variants:

• Venomous (adjective): Describing an animal that produces venom.
  • Example: "The venomous snake was lurking in the grass."
• Venomously (adverb): In a way that expresses anger or hatred.
  • Example: "He spoke venomously about the unfair treatment he received."

Different Meanings:

1. Literal Meaning: Referring to the toxic substance produced by certain animals.
2. Figurative Meaning: Describing a person's attitude or words that are hurtful or full of malice.

Synonyms:

• Toxin: A poisonous substance produced by living organisms.
• Poison: A substance that causes harm or death when introduced to a body.
• Malice: The intention to do evil or cause harm, often used in the emotional context.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "To spit venom": This idiom means to speak in a way that is very angry or hateful.

  • Example: "After the argument, she was spitting venom about her coworker."

• "Venom in their words": This phrase can describe speech that is harsh or filled with anger.

Academic

Noun

1. feeling a need to see others suffer
2. toxin secreted by animals; secreted by certain snakes and poisonous insects (e.g., spiders and scorpions)

Synonyms

• malice
• maliciousness
• spite
• spitefulness