venomous

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective extremely poisonous or injurious; producing venom
  2. adjective marked by deep ill will; deliberately harmful

Etymology

From Middle English venymous, from Old French venimos, composed of venim (“venom”) + -os (adjective-forming suffix). Synchronically analysable as venom + -ous. Compare Modern French venimeux. Piecewise doublet of venenous.

In classic literature

Synonyms

deadly, virulent

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