ergot Definition
- 1a fungus, Claviceps purpurea, that forms a mass of dark, elongated, hard grains on the heads of rye and other grasses.
- 2the sclerotium of this fungus, which contains alkaloids that can cause hallucinations, spasms, and even death when ingested by humans or animals.
Using ergot: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ergot" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Ergotism is a disease caused by eating food contaminated with ergot.
Example
The fungus that produces ergot grows on rye and other grains.
Example
Ergot has been used in medicine to induce labor and stop bleeding.
ergot Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for ergot
- clavus
- clavus purpureus
- saint anthony's fire
Phrases with ergot
a condition caused by consuming food contaminated with ergot, characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations, spasms, and gangrene
Example
Ergot poisoning was common during the Middle Ages due to the consumption of contaminated bread.
a disease caused by prolonged ingestion of ergot-contaminated food, characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations, spasms, and gangrene
Example
Ergotism was prevalent in Europe during the Middle Ages, causing widespread panic and superstition.
a group of alkaloids produced by the ergot fungus, used in medicine to treat migraines and induce labor
Example
Ergot alkaloids are effective in treating migraines but can have serious side effects.
Origins of ergot
from Middle French 'argot', meaning 'spurred rye'
Summary: ergot in Brief
Ergot [ur-guh t] is a fungus that grows on rye and other grasses, forming a mass of dark, elongated, hard grains. The sclerotium of this fungus contains alkaloids that can cause hallucinations, spasms, and even death when ingested by humans or animals. Ergotism is a disease caused by prolonged ingestion of ergot-contaminated food, characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations, spasms, and gangrene. Ergot has been used in medicine to induce labor and stop bleeding.
