1. toxic compounds produced by bacteria during the decomposition of organic matter, especially proteins
Usage: scientific; often associated with food poisoning

Examples

• The spoiled meat contained dangerous ptomaines that could cause severe illness.
• Food safety inspectors test for ptomaines in potentially contaminated products.
• Proper refrigeration prevents the formation of ptomaines in perishable foods.
• The scientist studied how ptomaines develop during bacterial decomposition.
• Ptomaines were once thought to be the primary cause of food poisoning.
• The laboratory detected high levels of ptomaines in the expired dairy products.