contaminant

noun

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

Synonyms of contaminant

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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.
The soap can be absorbed by the berries, potentially introducing contaminants. — Martha Stewart, 3 July 2026 But sharks are not zebrafish — their neurobiology is distinct, shaped by an evolutionary lineage far older than most modern contaminants. — Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 Nevertheless, there are several measures that gardeners can take to keep themselves, their children, plants and produce safe from potentially harmful contaminants stemming from the fire. — Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026 Common threats include biotoxins, chemical contaminants, disease, and fishing gear entanglements, experts say. — Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for contaminant

Word History

Etymology

contamin(ate) + -ant entry 1

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of contaminant was in 1922

Browse Nearby Words

contakion
contaminant
contaminate
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Cite this Entry

“Contaminant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contaminant. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of contaminant for Spanish Speakers

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