potassium cyanide

noun

: a very poisonous crystalline salt KCN used especially in gold and silver extraction from ore

Examples of potassium cyanide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Officials bought potassium cyanide instead of sodium cyanide. Jimmy Jenkins, The Arizona Republic, 5 Dec. 2024 An arrest affidavit from the Aurora Police Department obtained by PEOPLE claims that James slipped potassium cyanide and arsenic into his wife’s pre-workout shake beginning the morning of March 6. Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 30 Nov. 2024 Police began investigating James Craig in the death of his wife after a business partner informed them Craig had ordered potassium cyanide to be sent to his dental practice, their affidavit said, drawing the concern of the partner because the chemical is highly lethal if ingested. Andi Babineau, CNN, 27 Nov. 2024 The victims ingested Extra Strength Tylenol capsules that was later learned to be laced with potassium cyanide, a highly toxic chemical asphyxiant that interferes with the body's ability to use oxygen and causes rapid death. Chris Eberhart, Fox News, 12 Aug. 2023 See all Example Sentences for potassium cyanide 

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of potassium cyanide was in 1866

Dictionary Entries Near potassium cyanide

Cite this Entry

“Potassium cyanide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/potassium%20cyanide. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

potassium cyanide

noun
: a very poisonous salt used especially to obtain gold and silver from ore

Medical Definition

potassium cyanide

noun
: a very poisonous crystalline salt KCN

More from Merriam-Webster on potassium cyanide

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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