CONTAMINANT Synonyms: 33 Similar and Opposite Words

contaminant

noun

kən-ˈta-mə-nənt

Definition of contaminant

as in contamination

something that is or that makes impure a filter to remove contaminants from the drinking water

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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.

Recent Examples of contaminant Even drinking water, which is carefully treated and monitored, can contain trace amounts of contaminants from multiple sources, including pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals and compounds formed during water treatment. — Brad Reisfeld, The Conversation, 6 July 2026 Common threats include biotoxins, chemical contaminants, disease, and fishing gear entanglements, experts say. — Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 6 July 2026 Middleton also reportedly avoids drinking tap water when travelling overseas because of concerns over bacteria, contaminants or unfamiliar mineral content. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 3 July 2026 These contaminants can also carry pathogens, which may cause foodborne illness. — Martha Stewart, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for contaminant

Recent Examples of Synonyms for contaminant

Noun

If you’re diagnosed with cyclosporiais, share dietary information with your doctor to help health officials keep track of what foods are at risk of contamination, the CDC said.

— Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 14 July 2026
While half of respondents cited environmental concerns, such as excess water usage and deforestation, 16% of respondents cited pollutants, including air and water contamination, among reasons for their opposition.

— Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 13 July 2026

Definition of contamination

Noun

People should look for air purifiers to remove pollutants from entering inside a person’s home, and people can also make their own DIY purifier using a box fan and adequate HEPA filters.

— Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 18 July 2026
Smoke from wildfires is made of water vapor, pollutants and particulate matter, which can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, trigger systemic inflammation, exacerbate conditions like asthma and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

— Mary Whitfill Roeloffs, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Definition of pollutant

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contains

contaminant

contaminants

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“Contaminant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contaminant. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of contaminant

noun

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