説明中心

ergot

[ur-guh t]

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'

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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.