Definition of Venomous
Quick Meaning of Venomous
An animal that can hurt you by injecting a harmful liquid when it bites or stings.
Detailed Definition of Venomous
Capable of producing and injecting venom; describes animals that can harm by biting or stinging.
How to Pronounce Venomous
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Three syllables: VEN-uh-mus. Stress on the first syllable.
Watch out: vee-nuh-mus (incorrect long e)
Origin and Etymology of Venomous
From Medieval Latin 'venenosus', from 'venenum' (poison). Related to 'venom'.
How to Use Venomous in a Sentence
Each example shows “venomous” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“Is this spider venomous?”
-
“The venomous snake bit the farmer on his ankle.”
-
“Some venomous species have evolved bright warning colors.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Venomous
Common Synonyms for Venomous
Smart Synonyms for Venomous — When to Use Each
- poisonous
- when substance harms if touched or eaten
- toxic
- scientific contexts for harmful substances
Antonyms of Venomous
Common Collocations with Venomous
These phrases pair with “venomous” in everyday English:
- venomous snake
- venomous spider
- venomous bite
- venomous sting
- venomous creature
Common Mistakes When Using Venomous
Even fluent speakers slip up with “venomous”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong:
- ✓ Correct: The poison ivy is poisonous.
- ✗ Wrong:
- ✓ Correct: The poisonous food made him sick.
Words Confused With Venomous
- Venomous vs Poisonous: Venomous means injecting toxin by bite/sting; poisonous means harmful if touched or eaten.
- Venomous vs Toxic: Toxic is a broader scientific term; venomous applies specifically to animals that inject venom.
Other Forms of Venomous
- Noun: venom
- Adjective: venomous
- Adverb: venomously
Frequently Asked Questions About Venomous
What is the meaning of "Venomous"?
An animal that can hurt you by injecting a harmful liquid when it bites or stings.
How do you pronounce "Venomous"?
The IPA is /ˈvɛnəməs/. Three syllables: VEN-uh-mus. Stress on the first syllable.
What part of speech is "Venomous"?
"Venomous" is an adjective at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Venomous"?
Common synonyms include toxic, deadly, lethal.
How do you use "Venomous" in a sentence?
For example: "Is this spider venomous?"