toxicity

[ tok-sis-i-tee ]

noun

, plural tox·ic·i·ties.

1. the quality, relative degree, or specific degree of being toxic or poisonous:

   to determine the toxicity of arsenic.

toxicity

/ tɒkˈsɪsɪtɪ /

noun

1. the degree of strength of a poison
2. the state or quality of being poisonous

Other Words From

• hyper·tox·ici·ty noun
• nontox·ici·ty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of toxicity¹

First recorded in 1880–85; toxic + -ity

Example Sentences

There are a few studies, such as on the toxicity of plastics, changes in habitats and ecosystems and rafting of species.

From Science Daily

"Research is urgently needed to better understand the toxicity of the dominant PFEAs that we detected in the produce."

From Science Daily

Lurie won because voters were sick of the “pettiness and toxicity” of San Francisco politics, Law said, and wanted a mayor focused on results.

From Los Angeles Times

The toxicity and polarization have broken up friendships and divided families, on a profoundly wounding level.

From Salon

If they don't see off Motherwell then the toxicity is going to hit a new high.

From BBC