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toxicity
In biological terms, this word suggests a measurable, scientific threshold of danger. It describes a chemical potency that triggers a physiological failure, often associated with sterile labs, warning labels, and hazardous materials. When applied to human behavior, the word evokes a sense of emotional pollution. It describes an atmosphere where negativity, manipulation, and aggression permeate the environment, slowly eroding the mental well-being of those trapped within it.
Uncountable when referring to the general property of being poisonous or a general social atmosphere. Countable when referring to specific types or levels of poisonous effects measured in a study.
Meanings
The degree to which a substance is poisonous or harmful to a living organism.
"The laboratory tested the toxicity of the new pesticide."
The quality of being very unpleasant, malicious, or harmful in a social or emotional environment.
"The manager was fired after reports of the toxicity within his department."