contaminant

Everyday

A substance that makes something dirty, impure, harmful or poisonous, such as germs, chemicals or dirt in water, food, air or soil. tree →

In the lessons

In science and health lessons, contaminants such as bacteria, lead, oil or plastics can get into drinking water, food or the environment. Water companies test for contaminants to keep tap water safe. It tells the reader something unwanted and harmful is present.

Examples

• The water was tested for contaminants. tree →
• Bacteria are a common contaminant in raw chicken. tree →
• Microplastics are a contaminant in the oceans. tree →
• The filter removes contaminants from the water. tree →
• Lead used to be a contaminant in old water pipes. tree →
• Factories must stop contaminants getting into rivers. tree →

Note

Countable: a contaminant, contaminants. Same family: contaminate (verb), contamination (noun for the process or state), contaminated (adjective).