Synonyms of pollutant

pollutant

noun

pə-ˈlü-tᵊnt 

as in contaminant

something that is or that makes impure

filtered the pollutants out of the water

Synonyms & Similar Words

• contaminant
• contamination
• sludge
• defect
• impurity
• soil
• irregularity
• stain
• adulterant
• defilement
• dirt
• taint
• spot
• abnormality
• muck
• filth
• grime
• blot
• fault
• scum
• blotch
• flaw
• smut
• disfigurement
• blemish
• imperfection

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• filter
• purifier
• refiner
• clarifier
• purity
• cleanliness
• immaculateness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of pollutant

The air district is warning residents that wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter and other harmful pollutants, adding that exposure is unhealthy, even for short periods of time. — Tim Fang, CBS News, 4 Aug. 2026

That has raised concerns that pollutants could spread if the debris is not properly sorted and disposed of. — ABC News, 29 July 2026

With construction, egg masses buried beneath sand may not survive, and dredging can also release pollutants, including heavy metals, that could affect the iconic snail. — Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 27 July 2026

Residents who want to check the air quality in their neighborhood can go to the Open Air Chicago map and click on a sensor nearest to their location to find readings on pollutants. — Finnegan Belleau, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026