ptomaine

/ˌˈtoʊˌˈmeɪn/
IPA guide

Other forms: ptomaines

Definitions of ptomaine
  1. noun
    any of various amines (such as putrescine or cadaverine) formed by the action of putrefactive bacteria
    synonyms: ptomain
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    types:
    putrescine
    a colorless crystalline ptomaine with a foul odor that is produced in decaying animal matter
    cadaverine
    a colorless toxic ptomaine with an unpleasant odor formed during the putrefaction of animal tissue
    type of:
    amine, aminoalkane
    a compound derived from ammonia by replacing hydrogen atoms by univalent hydrocarbon radicals
  2. noun
    a term for food poisoning that is no longer in scientific use; food poisoning was once thought to be caused by ingesting ptomaines
    synonyms: ptomaine poisoning
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    type of:
    food poisoning, gastrointestinal disorder
    illness caused by poisonous or contaminated food
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