Belladonna (Noun)
Meaning 1
Perennial Eurasian herb with reddish bell-shaped flowers and shining black berries; extensively grown in United States; roots and leaves yield atropine.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The attractive yet poisonous belladonna has been a topic of interest in many gardens throughout history due to its beauty and potential for misuse.
- Historians believe the plant belladonna has been in use since ancient Greece, both as a medication and a means to cause harm.
- Caution signs surrounding the planting area serve as a warning of the poisonous berries produced by the beautiful but deadly belladonna.
- Its vibrant red flowers aside, the herbaceous perennial plant belladonna holds many potential risks and hazards.
- Extracts of atropine taken from the leaves and roots of the plant belladonna can cause unpredictable reactions and potential toxicity in individuals who use them without guidance.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
An alkaloidal extract or tincture of the poisonous belladonna plant that is used medicinally.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Examples
- The doctor carefully prescribed a controlled dose of belladonna to treat the patient's eye condition.
- The hospital stored its stock of belladonna in a locked cabinet to prevent accidental ingestion.
- Researchers have long been interested in the medicinal properties of belladonna and its potential uses.
- Historically, belladonna was used in folk medicine for various ailments, including insomnia and indigestion.
- Despite its toxic properties, belladonna remains a useful extract in the field of medicine.