DEATH CAP Meaning and
Definition
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Death cap refers to a deadly poisonous mushroom scientifically known as Amanita phalloides. It is widely regarded as one of the most toxic species of mushrooms found across the globe. The name "death cap" alludes to its lethal nature upon consumption.
Characterized by its distinctive appearance, the death cap typically has a pale white to yellowish cap, which may occasionally exhibit a greenish or brownish hue. It can grow to a size ranging from five to 15 centimeters in diameter. The stem is white and smooth, often with a swollen base. The gills are white and crowded, and the mushroom produces a partial veil (known as a universal veil) that eventually forms a ring on the stem.
Death caps contain potent toxins, particularly amatoxins which are responsible for their hazardous properties. Consumption of even a small portion can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, often with a delayed onset after ingestion. In some cases, symptoms may initially subside, giving a false sense of recovery, before rapidly progressing to kidney and liver failure that can be fatal. It is worth noting that cooking or boiling the mushrooms does not diminish their toxicity, as the toxins remain stable even at high temperatures.
Due to their substantial toxicity and resemblance to edible mushrooms, death caps are a significant cause of mushroom poisoning worldwide. Educating the public about their distinct features and dangers is essential to prevent accidental ingestion and potential fatalities.
Common Misspellings for DEATH CAP
- seath cap
- xeath cap
- ceath cap
- feath cap
- reath cap
- eeath cap
- dwath cap
- dsath cap
- ddath cap
- drath cap
- d4ath cap
- d3ath cap
- dezth cap
- desth cap
- dewth cap
- deqth cap
- dearh cap
- deafh cap
- deagh cap
- death cp
Etymology of DEATH CAP
The etymology of the term "death cap" is fairly straightforward. It comes from the combination of the words "death" and "cap".
The mushroom referred to as the "death cap" is scientifically known as Amanita phalloides. This term reflects its deadly nature and its distinct cap-shaped appearance. The name "death cap" originated from Latin, where "amānīta" means "deadly" or "poisonous", and "phalloides" refers to "phallic-shaped" (due to the shape of the mushroom's cap). Over time, this Latin name was anglicized and popularized, resulting in the commonly used term "death cap" to describe this poisonous mushroom.
Idioms with the word DEATH CAP
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death cap
A death cap is a type of poisonous mushroom, known scientifically as Amanita phalloides, that can be fatal if ingested. This idiom can refer to something that is extremely dangerous or deadly.
Similar spelling words for DEATH CAP
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