botulinum
/ˈbɑtʃəˌlaɪnəm/
noun
- A type of bacterium (Clostridium botulinum) that produces a powerful toxin, often found in improperly preserved food.
- The outbreak was traced to botulinum in the homemade pickles.
- Botulinum thrives in low-oxygen environments like sealed cans.
- Scientists study botulinum to understand how its toxin affects nerves.