Synonyms of contamination

contamination

noun

kən-ˌta-mə-ˈnā-shən 

as in contaminant

something that is or that makes impure

swimming in the lake is banned until the contamination is identified and neutralized

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of contamination

Several food products were recalled in September over concerns ranging from possible salmonella and listeria contamination to undeclared allergens, foreign materials and other potential hazards. — Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2026

Many residents still have not returned home and have struggled to clean up contamination left by smoke and debris. — Evan Bush, NBC news, 2 Oct. 2026

That became an issue during contamination events like the great onion recalls of 2020 and 2021 and the great peanut butter poisoning of 2022. — HubSpot, 1 Oct. 2026

Library workers became concerned about contamination about two hours later and called 911 again, Denver officials said. — Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 1 Oct. 2026