Noxious

Adjective

Definition: Harmful, poisonous, or toxic.

Synonyms: Harmful, Toxic, Poisonous, Detrimental

Antonyms: Beneficial, Harmless, Non-toxic

Examples:

The fumes from the chemicals were noxious and caused the workers to evacuate the building.
The noxious weeds spread rapidly, choking out other plants in the garden.

Mnemonics:

Think of "noxious" as something that causes harm or is poisonous.
Noxious gases can be detrimental to one's health.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English "noxious" from Latin "noxiousus," from "noxia" (harm, injury)

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the 15th century with the same meaning of harmful or poisonous.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Noxious fumes"

Explanation:

Refers to harmful or toxic gases that can cause damage to people's health or the environment.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "noxious" with "noxious weed."

Explanation:

While noxious weeds are harmful plants, the term "noxious" itself is not restricted to describing only weeds. It can be used to describe any harmful or toxic substance or situation.