contaminant

[kuhn-tam-uh-nuhnt]

noun

1. something that contaminates.

Word History and Origins

Origin of contaminant¹

1920–25; < Latin contāminant- (stem of contāmināns ), present participle of contāmināre. See contaminate, -ant

Example Sentences

She said she felt reassured after talking to experts at the event, who explained they are "putting in barriers and things like that" to stop contaminants from getting to the river.

From BBC

The planetary scientist’s house survived, but unseen contaminants could be lurking in the soil.

From Los Angeles Times

Researchers were also making strides under the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, a division of Health and Human Services, which has financed investigations into dozens of environmental contaminants.

From Salon

But the company insists that any problems are swiftly detected; and it disputes the claim that contaminants are entering the deep aquifers.

From BBC

Crews finished repairs Wednesday at noon and were working to re-pressurize and test the water line for any pathogens or contaminants, according to a statement from L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• contamination 
• impurity 
• poison 
• pollutant 
• toxin