Vocabulary Entry

ergotism

|noun

noun

A condition resulting from the ingestion of ergot, a fungus that infects rye and other grains, causing various symptoms, including convulsions and hallucinations.

Example Sentences

"The farmers were concerned about the possibility of ergotism affecting their rye crop."

"Historical accounts describe how ergotism led to mass illnesses in the Middle Ages."

"Symptoms of ergotism can include severe headaches and muscle spasms."