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ptomaine

noun
pto·​maine | \ ˈtō-ˌmān How to pronounce ptomaine (audio) , tō-ˈmān How to pronounce ptomaine (audio) \

Definition of ptomaine

: any of various organic bases which are formed by the action of putrefactive bacteria on nitrogenous matter and some of which are poisonous

First Known Use of ptomaine

1880, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for ptomaine

Italian ptomaina, from Greek ptōma fall, fallen body, corpse, from piptein to fall — more at feather

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More Definitions for ptomaine

ptomaine

noun
pto·​maine | \ ˈtō-ˌmān How to pronounce ptomaine (audio) , tō-ˈ How to pronounce ptomaine (audio) \

Medical Definition of ptomaine

: any of various organic bases formed by the action of putrefactive bacteria on nitrogenous matter and including some which are poisonous — compare leukomaine

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Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with ptomaine

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