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Vocabulary Entry
ergot
|noun • verb
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N
noun
A fungal disease of cereal grains, particularly rye, caused by the fungus Claviceps purpurea and characterized by dark, elongated sclerotia that can produce toxic compounds.
Example Sentences
"The farmer discovered ergot on his rye crops."
"Historically, ergot was associated with a range of health issues in communities that relied on rye for bread."
"Researchers are studying the effects of ergot alkaloids on human health."
V
verb
To cause or induce to grow ergot on grain, particularly through the action of the fungus.
Example Sentences
"The wet conditions may ergot the wheat this season."
"Farmers must monitor their fields to prevent the grains from being ergotted."
"In some regions, the practices have ergoted crops unintentionally."