nerve gas

SEE SYNONYMS FOR nerve gas ON THESAURUS.COM

noun

any of several poison gases, derived chiefly from phosphoric acid, that weaken or paralyze the nervous system, especially that part of the system controlling respiration.

Origin of nerve gas

First recorded in 1935–40

Words nearby nerve gas

nerve conduction, nerve cord, nerve decompression, nerve fiber, nerve fibre, nerve gas, nerve graft, nerve growth factor, nerve growth factor antiserum, nerve impulse, nerve net

Words related to nerve gas

asphyxiant

Example sentences from the Web for nerve gas

British Dictionary definitions for nerve gas

nerve gas

noun

(esp in chemical warfare) any of various poisonous gases that have a potentially fatal paralysing effect on the central nervous system

Medical definitions for nerve gas

nerve gas

n.

Any of various poisonous gases that interfere with the functioning of nerves by inhibiting cholinesterase.

Scientific definitions for nerve gas

nerve gas

Any of various poisonous gases that interfere with the functioning of nerves by inhibiting the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Increased levels of acetylcholine stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to cardiac and respiratory arrest.