Contaminated Meaning and Definition
Contaminated
Pronunciation
/kɑnˈtæmɪneɪtɪd/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Having been made impure or polluted by the presence of unwanted substances, such as dirt, germs, or chemicals.
Examples
- The contaminated water was undrinkable.
- The company was fined for contaminating the environment.
Synonyms
- Polluted
- Tainted
Antonyms
- Pure
- Clean
Additional Information
Contaminated substances can pose a significant risk to human health and the environment. It is essential to take measures to prevent contamination and to properly clean and disinfect surfaces and objects. Contamination can occur through various means, including air, water, or physical contact.
In medical contexts, contamination can refer to the introduction of unwanted microorganisms into a wound or a patient’s body. In environmental contexts, contamination can refer to the presence of pollutants in soil, air, or water.
Etymology
The word “contaminated” comes from the Latin “contaminare,” meaning “to pollute” or “to defile.”
Usage Notes
“Contaminated” can be used in a variety of contexts, including medical, environmental, and scientific contexts. It is often used to describe the presence of unwanted substances or microorganisms in a particular environment or substance.
Cultural References
The concept of contamination has been explored in various works of fiction, including films and literature. For example, in the novel “The Andromeda Strain,” a team of scientists must contain a mysterious extraterrestrial microorganism that has contaminated a small town.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Contaminated with an idea
- Contaminated by association
Related Words or Phrases
- Pollution
- Toxicity
- Infection
Collocations
- Contaminated water
- Contaminated soil
- Contaminated air
Frequency of Use
The word “contaminated” is commonly used in modern language, particularly in scientific and medical contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Contaminaited
- Contaminatedd
- Contaminaton