Arachnidism

/əˈræknɪdɪzəm/ noun

Definition

Poisoning or illness caused by the bite or sting of a spider, scorpion, or other arachnid.

Etymology

From 'arachnid' + '-ism' (suffix for conditions or states). Formalized in medical terminology in the 1800s as doctors catalogued spider and scorpion envenomations.

Kelly Says

Most cases of arachnidism are minor because most arachnids are tiny or their venom is weak—but the Brazilian wandering spider's venom is so potent it can cause full-body paralysis!

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