poison; corrupt; pollute
Meanings
3 senses · 10 examplesverb
to poison with drugs; to harm people with narcotics
This sense specifically refers to the physical and social harm caused by the spread of addictive substances like opium. Often used in historical or social critique contexts.
Imperialism once attempted to poison China with opium.
Drug smuggling syndicates are poisoning the local society.
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Drug prohibition is to prevent narcotics from poisoning the next generation.
verb
to use education, art, etc. to inculcate backward or reactionary ideas
This sense refers to the use of ideological tools for negative influence. Has a strong political connotation and is often used critically.
This film was accused of attempting to poison the minds of the youth.
We must be vigilant against propaganda that poisons public opinion.
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The regime used the education system to poison people's understanding.
verb
to poison; to make (atmosphere, relations, morals, etc.) become bad
The broadest and most metaphorical sense. Refers to the negative influence on intangible social or interpersonal environments.
Gossip in the office poisoned the work atmosphere.
Cyberbullying is poisoning the discussion environment on social media.
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Vicious competition in business has poisoned the industry's ethos.
Constant quarreling poisoned their marital relationship.