/ˌvɛrəˈtriːn/ VER-ə-TRYN

Definitions

1. noun

A toxic alkaloid obtained from the root of the English foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) and the related plant (Digitalis lanata), used in medicine as a cardiac stimulant.

“The cardiologist prescribed a small dose of veratrine to strengthen the patient’s heart.”

2. noun

A toxic substance, especially one obtained from plants or fungi, that has a particular effect on the body.

“The researcher warned the students about the dangers of ingesting veratrine, which can be highly toxic.”