lead poisoning

noun

: chronic intoxication that is produced by the absorption of lead into the system and is characterized especially by fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, anemia, a dark line along the gums, and muscular paralysis or weakness of limbs

called also saturnism

Examples of lead poisoning in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This helps explain why, as countries throughout Europe cracked down on sources of lead poisoning, the United States continued to install lead pipes and make lead paint. —Stephen Mihm, The Mercury News, 2 Jan. 2025

However, new reports also warn of a serious risk linked to cinnamon: lead poisoning. —Fran Kritz, Verywell Health, 11 Dec. 2024

Short-term symptoms of lead poisoning include headaches, abdominal pain, colic, vomiting and anemia. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2024

Wild California condors still face threats, such as lead poisoning, habitat destruction and ingestion of microtrash. —Alexa Robles-Gil, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1842, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

lead poisoning

noun

: an abnormal condition that is caused by absorption of lead into the body and results in various bodily symptoms (as tiredness, nausea, loss of appetite, and paralysis or weakness of the muscles)

Medical Definition

lead poisoning

noun

: a serious acute or chronic condition that is caused by exposure and absorption of lead (such as lead carbonate) and is characterized by variable symptoms including fatigue, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, impaired cognitive development or function, joint and muscle pain, loss of appetite, anemia, a dark line along the gums, encephalopathy, seizures, paralysis, and kidney damage

called also plumbism, saturnism