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contaminant

noun

con·​tam·​i·​nant kən-ˈta-mə-nənt How to pronounce contaminant (audio)
Synonyms of contaminantnext
: something that contaminates

Examples of contaminant in a Sentence

a filter to remove contaminants from the drinking water
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.
At Moss Landing, some of the government’s sampling turned up low concentrations of the metals, likely because the samples came from broad, mixed layers that diluted the concentration of metals rather than the thin surface deposits where contaminants settled. Ivano W. Aiello, The Conversation, 1 Dec. 2025 Independent testing confirms that the supplement contains the ingredients listed on the label and is free from harmful contaminants. Ashley Wong, Health, 27 Nov. 2025 Higher temperatures can help plastics absorb and release these harmful contaminants more easily, as well as increasing their ability to leach harmful chemicals contained within the plastic itself. Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 27 Nov. 2025 However, some people, who may be more sensitive to the effects of mercury and other contaminants, should consider limiting their intake. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 17 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for contaminant

Word History

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of contaminant was in 1922

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Contaminant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contaminant. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

contaminant

noun
con·​tam·​i·​nant kən-ˈtam-ə-nənt How to pronounce contaminant (audio)
: something that contaminates

Medical Definition

contaminant

noun
con·​tam·​i·​nant kən-ˈtam-ə-nənt How to pronounce contaminant (audio)
: something that contaminates

More from Merriam-Webster on contaminant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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