Arsenic is a chemical element with the symbol As and atomic number 33. It is a metalloid that occurs naturally in rocks and soil, and can also be found in groundwater. Arsenic is a toxic substance and exposure to it can cause serious health problems.
Definitions
Arsenic is a chemical element with the symbol As and atomic number 33. It is a metalloid that occurs naturally in rocks and soil, and can also be found in groundwater. Arsenic is a toxic substance and exposure to it can cause serious health problems.
Origin
The word “arsenic” comes from the Greek word “arsenikon,” which means “yellow orpiment.” The element was first discovered in the Middle Ages, and was used as a poison in many cultures throughout history.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, arsenic is “a poisonous metallic element, occurring in several allotropic forms, widely distributed in nature, and used in alloys, semiconductors, and various compounds.” Merriam-Webster defines arsenic as “a poisonous chemical element that is used especially in wood preservatives, pesticides, and medicines.” The Cambridge English Dictionary defines arsenic as “a poisonous chemical element that is used in some types of insecticides and weedkillers.”
Associations
Arsenic is often associated with poisoning, either intentional or accidental. It has been used as a poison for centuries, and exposure to high levels of arsenic can cause a range of health problems, including skin lesions, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for arsenic include poison, toxin, and deadly substance.
Antonyms
Antonyms for arsenic might include healthy, safe, and non-toxic.
The same root words
Some words that share the same root as arsenic include arson, arsonist, and arsonic.
Example Sentences
- The water in this region is contaminated with arsenic, which can cause serious health problems.
- The victim’s autopsy revealed high levels of arsenic in their system, indicating that they were poisoned.
- The use of arsenic in pesticides and other products has been banned in many countries due to its toxicity.
- The suspect was found to have a stash of arsenic in their possession, suggesting that they may have been planning to use it as a poison.