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Glite Dictionary
ptomain

ptomain

9.9
Bacteria make a toxic chemical when animal or plant parts break down
  • noun
  • /ˈtoʊmeɪn/
  • Archaic
translation icon : ptomina
  • The presence of ptomain in spoiled meat can pose a serious health risk.

Examples

  • Bacterial action on protein leads to the release of ptomain compounds with a strong odor.

  • The presence of ptomain in spoiled food can be dangerous.

  • Scientists detected ptomain as a byproduct of advanced tissue decomposition.

  • What are the effects of ptomain exposure?

  • Bacterial action on protein leads to the release of ptomain compounds, which are toxic during decomposition.

  • Scientists detected ptomain as a toxic byproduct formed from decomposing organic matter.

  • The presence of ptomain in spoiled food can cause symptoms of food poisoning.

Synonyms

toxin
vsptomain
  • Specialized
140 5.3

A poisonous substance that some animals, plants, or bacteria make

is narrower meaning specific bacterial amines produced during decay
ptomaine
vsptomain
  • Archaic
2 9.9

A poison made when food or meat goes bad that causes food poisoning

is the modern scientific name for the same compounds

Surface Forms

ptomain singular
ptomains plural

Etymology

The word ptomain comes from the Greek root ptoma, meaning 'fallen body' or 'corpse', because scientists used it for the smelly, toxic chemicals that form when a body or other organic matter rots. So, ptomain now means the poisonous compounds made by bacteria during decay.