Toxic Meaning and Definition
Toxic
Pronunciation
/ˈtɒksɪk/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Harmful, poisonous, or Causes health problems or death; extremely bad or unpleasant.
Examples
- The toxic chemicals in the plant can cause skin irritation.
- The relationship has become toxic and is affecting my mental health.
Synonyms
- Poisonous
- Hazardous
Antonyms
- Safe
- Healthy
Additional Information
Toxic substances can be found in various forms, including chemicals, gases, and biological agents. Prolonged exposure to toxic materials can lead to serious health problems or even death. In a broader sense, the term “toxic” can also describe a harmful or destructive relationship, environment, or situation that can cause emotional or psychological distress.
In recent years, the term “toxic” has been increasingly used to describe online communities or social media platforms that foster harmful or hateful behavior. This usage highlights the need for responsible digital citizenship and the importance of creating safe and respectful online environments.
Etymology
The word “toxic” originates from the Greek word “toxikos,” meaning “poisonous” or “arrow poison.” It has been used in the English language since the 17th century to describe substances that can cause harm or death.
Usage Notes
The term “toxic” is often used in scientific and medical contexts to describe hazardous substances or environments. However, its usage has expanded to include figurative senses, such as describing a toxic relationship or a toxic work environment.
Cultural References
The term “toxic” has been featured in popular culture, including in songs like “Toxic” by Britney Spears and “Toxicity” by System of a Down. It has also been used in films and television shows to describe harmful or destructive relationships or environments.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Toxic wasteland
- Toxic relationship
Related Words or Phrases
- Poisonous
- Hazardous
- Dangerous
Collocations
- Toxic chemicals
- Toxic gas
- Toxic environment
Frequency of Use
The term “toxic” has become increasingly frequent in modern language, particularly in online contexts and social media platforms.
Common Misspellings
- Toksic
- Toxik
- Toxix