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Definition of «contaminate»

To contaminate means to make something impure or dirty by adding foreign substances, pollutants, or germs. It can also refer to introducing a new and unwanted element into an environment, system, or situation that changes its original state or condition. Contamination is the process of making something unclean or unsafe for use due to the presence of impurities or harmful substances.

Usage examples

  1. Improper waste disposal can contaminate the soil and affect the growth of plants.
  2. Inadequate food handling practices can contaminate the kitchen and lead to foodborne illnesses.
  3. A single infected individual can easily contaminate an entire group by not following proper hygiene protocols.
  4. Oil spills in the ocean can contaminate marine life, causing long-term damage to the ecosystem.
  5. Improperly cleaned medical instruments can contaminate surgical wounds, leading to infections.
  6. Cattle farms that use excessive amounts of antibiotics can contaminate the meat with drug-resistant bacteria.
  7. The use of pesticides in agriculture can contaminate nearby streams, harming aquatic life.
  8. Poor air quality in industrial areas can contaminate the lungs of residents, leading to respiratory problems.
  9. Landfills that are not properly sealed can contaminate nearby groundwater sources.

Phrases with «contaminate»

Sentences with «contaminate»

  • The frogs probably experienced these extreme consequences because they spent so much time immersed in water contaminated with the chemical. (scientificamerican.com)
  • Such an infection is caused by the ingestion of contaminated food, for instance ice cream or raw eggs, and can cause severe diarrhea. (sciencedaily.com)
  • These parasites can be spread by soil contaminated by human feces. (drchristianson.com)
  • (see all sentences)

See also

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