botulinum toxin

noun

: a neurotoxin formed by botulinum that causes botulism and that is injected in a purified form for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes (as to treat blepharospasm and reduce wrinkles)

Examples of botulinum toxin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In King County, Wash., three people sought medical care after receiving botulinum toxin injections at the same cosmetic spa, a spokesperson for the local health department told the Times. —Dani Blum, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 May 2024

In the 1950s and ’60s, scientists purified botulinum toxin, more commonly known as Botox. —Nick Kasmik, USA TODAY, 18 May 2024

Brand-name cosmetic Botox, which is used for reducing wrinkles and signs of aging, contains small amounts of botulinum toxin that aren’t harmful when delivered in the right dose. —Dani Blum, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 May 2024

Botox, or botulinum toxin, is used cosmetically to temporarily smooth fine lines on the face. —Emily Alpert Reyes, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

botulinum toxin

noun

variants also botulinus toxin

: a very powerful neurotoxin that causes botulism and is produced by the botulinum bacterium (Clostridium botulinum)

also : botulinum toxin type a

Note: Botulinum toxin acts primarily on the parasympathetic nervous system.