arsenic

word

Definition

Arsenic is a poisonous chemical element that has no smell or taste and can be very dangerous to humans if ingested or inhaled. It is sometimes found in water, soil, or food.

Usage & Nuances

'Arsenic' is formal and primarily used in scientific, environmental, and health contexts. Most often appears in discussions of toxins, pollution, or historical poisoning. Don't confuse with 'arsenal' (a collection of weapons).

Example Sentences

Arsenic has no smell or taste.

basic

Tests showed a small amount of arsenic in the rice samples.

natural

People used to use arsenic as a poison in old stories.

natural

Arsenic is found in some types of rocks and soil.

basic

Drinking water with arsenic can cause health problems.

basic

Certain pesticides from the past contained arsenic, which is why some soils are still contaminated.

natural