adjective
- of, relating to, or caused by ptomaines (toxic compounds produced by bacterial decomposition of organic matter)
Usage: technical; chiefly scientific or medical
Examples
- The ptomainic compounds found in the spoiled food were responsible for the food poisoning outbreak.
- Researchers studied ptomainic alkaloids to understand bacterial decomposition processes.
- The ptomainic odor emanating from the decaying matter indicated advanced putrefaction.
- Early toxicologists investigated ptomainic poisoning before modern food safety standards were established.