ergotism

ergotism definitions

noun
  • The usage of ergot infested grain to poison animals. 

  • The effect of long-term ergot poisoning, traditionally due to the ingestion of the alkaloids produced by the fungus Claviceps purpurea which infects rye and other cereals, and more recently by the action of a number of ergoline-based drugs, consisting of convulsive and gangrenous symptoms. 

  • The plant disease caused by ergot. 

  • A logical deduction.