- Today's Word
Noxious
NOK-shuhs
Definition
- (adjective) Harmful, poisonous, or dangerous to health.
Example
The noxious fumes from the factory forced the town to evacuate.
Fun Fact
“Noxious” comes from the Latin noxa, meaning “harm” or “injury.” Historically, it was used to describe deadly gases, polluted air, and poisonous plants. In literature, Shakespeare frequently referenced noxious substances, such as the poison that killed Hamlet’s father. Beyond physical dangers, the word has taken on a figurative meaning, applying to toxic relationships, manipulative people, and harmful ideologies—reminding us that not all poisons come in a bottle.
(noun) A mistaken belief or flawed line of reasoning that appears convincing but leads to an incorrect conclusion.
The claim that because something is natural it must be safe is a well-known fallacy.