food poisoning

noun

: an acute gastrointestinal disorder caused by bacteria or their toxic products or by chemical residues in food

Examples of food poisoning in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Tracy Morgan had a bout of food poisoning while in the front row at a New York Knicks game this week, the comedian revealed to fans on Instagram on Tuesday, assuaging concerns about his health after video of the incident went viral online. —Kevin Dolak, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 Mar. 2025

But after their date, instead of continuing their night of romance at home, the couple winds up with food poisoning caused by the fancy fromage. —Kat Stinson Updated, EW.com, 13 Mar. 2025

In 2019, at least 11 Americans died and thousands more suffered food poisoning in the country, according to Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection. —Michael Ruiz, Fox News, 11 Mar. 2025

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider The symptoms of food poisoning are distressing and, even when mild, can cause absences from work and school. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 24 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

food poisoning

noun

: a digestive sickness caused by bacteria or by chemicals in food

Medical Definition

food poisoning

noun

1

: either of two acute gastrointestinal disorders caused by bacteria or their toxic products:

a

: a rapidly developing intoxication marked by nausea, vomiting, prostration, and often severe diarrhea and caused by the presence in food of toxic products produced by bacteria (as some staphylococci)

b

: a less rapidly developing infection especially with salmonellae that has generally similar symptoms and that results from multiplication of bacteria ingested with contaminated food

2

: a gastrointestinal disturbance occurring after consumption of food that is contaminated with chemical residues (as from sprays) or food (as some fungi) that is inherently unsuitable for human consumption