veneno
“veneno” means “poison” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
poison, venom
Also: toxin
📝 In Action
Necesitas un antídoto rápido, ¡esto es veneno!
A2You need a quick antidote, this is poison!
La serpiente cascabel tiene un veneno muy potente.
B1The rattlesnake has very powerful venom.
Hay que guardar los productos de limpieza lejos de los niños, son veneno.
A2We must keep the cleaning products away from children, they are poison.
malice, bitterness
Also: toxicity
📝 In Action
Sus palabras estaban llenas de veneno y crítica.
B2His words were full of malice and criticism.
Hay mucho veneno en ese ambiente de trabajo.
C1There is a lot of toxicity (or bitterness) in that work environment.
El veneno de la envidia puede destruir amistades.
B2The poison of envy can destroy friendships.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: veneno
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'veneno' in its figurative, emotional sense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin word 'venenum,' which originally meant a magical charm or potion, but later evolved to mean a harmful drink or poison.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'veneno' used for animal toxins (venom) or only substances that are eaten (poison)?
'Veneno' covers both! You use it for the toxin produced by a snake or spider (venom), and also for a chemical substance that is harmful if swallowed (poison).
What is the corresponding verb for 'veneno'?
The verb is 'envenenar,' which means 'to poison' someone or something.

