Strychnine (noun)

A toxic alkaloid that is found in the seeds of the tree Strychnos nux-vomica and is used as a pesticide and as a stimulant for the central nervous system in small doses.

Origin:

From the scientific name of the plant strychnos nux-vomica from which it is extracted.

Examples:

1. The poison used to kill the rat was strychnine.
2. The use of strychnine as a pesticide is now banned in most countries.
3. The small amount of strychnine in the tonic was believed to stimulate the nervous system.
4. The victim died from strychnine poisoning.
5. Strychnine is a very toxic substance and should be handled with care.