asbestos

noun

as·​bes·​tos as-ˈbe-stəs How to pronounce asbestos (audio)
az-
: any of several minerals (such as chrysotile) that readily separate into long flexible fibers, that cause asbestosis and have been implicated as causes of certain cancers, and that have been used especially formerly as fireproof insulating materials

Did you know?

A grayish mineral that separates readily into long, flexible fibers, asbestos was used in the past to make brake linings, insulation, roofing shingles, floor and ceiling tiles, cement pipes, and other building materials. Asbestos fabrics were used for safety apparel and theater curtains. In the 1970s, it was found that prolonged inhalation of the tiny asbestos fibers can cause asbestosis, lung cancer, and other serious lung diseases. In 1989, the US Government instituted a gradual ban on the manufacture, use, and export of most products made with asbestos.

Examples of asbestos in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
File photo: Workers begin the abatement and demolition of a property contaminated with asbestos in Michigan. Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025 However, 89% understand the link between tobacco and cancer, 81% know about the cancer risks with asbestos, and 91% are aware of the cancer risks from radiation. Zachary Folk, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 Anne’s taste buds were apparently made of asbestos. Allen Salkin, HollywoodReporter, 18 June 2025 Historically, asbestos was used in roofing and cement — and may still be found in old buildings. Rachel Frazin, The Hill, 17 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for asbestos

Word History

Etymology

Middle English albeston mineral supposed to be inextinguishable when set on fire, probably from Middle French abeston, from Medieval Latin asbeston, alteration of Latin asbestos, from Greek, unslaked lime, from asbestos inextinguishable, from a- + sbennynai to quench

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of asbestos was in 1607

Cite this Entry

“Asbestos.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asbestos. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

asbestos

noun
as·​bes·​tos as-ˈbes-təs How to pronounce asbestos (audio)
az-
: a grayish mineral that easily separates into long flexible fibers, that is used to make materials that are fireproof, do not conduct electricity, and are chemically resistant, and that can cause serious lung disease if inhaled as a dust

Medical Definition

asbestos

noun
as·​bes·​tos as-ˈbes-təs How to pronounce asbestos (audio) az- How to pronounce asbestos (audio)
: any of several minerals that readily separate into long flexible fibers, that cause asbestosis and have been implicated as causes of certain cancers, and that have been used especially formerly as fireproof insulating materials

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