cyanogenic

[ sahy-uh-noh-jen-ik, sahy-an-uh- ]

adjective

, Biology, Chemistry.

1. capable of producing hydrogen cyanide.

Other Words From

• cya·no·gene·sis noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of cyanogenic¹

cyanogen + -ic

Example Sentences

Known to scientists as amygdalin, the toxin is a type of chemical compound called a cyanogenic glucoside.

From Scientific American

The cyanogenic glycosides can be rapidly processed by enzymes within the plant to release lethal hydrogen cyanide.

From The Guardian

Lovage suffered cyanogenic poisoning, according to the lawsuit.

From Seattle Times

The plant turned out to contain cyanogenic glucoside, a precursor to cyanide.

From Nature

Imported raw cassava is particularly dangerous because it contains a toxin called linamarin which the body converts to the deadly cyanogenic glycoside when eaten raw. 

From Salon