Cyanogenic

/ˌsaɪ.ən.oʊ.ˈdʒɛn.ɪk/ adjective

Definition

Capable of producing or containing cyanide or cyanogen compounds, especially as a natural defense mechanism in plants.

Etymology

From cyano- + -genic (producing). Greek cyanos (blue) combined with genic (producing), literally meaning 'producing blue compounds.'

Kelly Says

Almonds, apple seeds, and peach pits are all cyanogenic—they contain amygdalin which converts to cyanide when digested, but you'd need to eat kilos to get poisoned, so don't panic about that cherry pie.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.