Synonyms for

Contamination

Verb / kʌˌntæmʌˈneɪʃʌn / Another word for contamination — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Contamination means the presence or introduction into something of a substance or thing that is harmful or polluting.

Synonyms & similar words

decontamination taint pollution contaminant pollution impurity adulteration taint defilement infection toxicity poisoning corruption degradation fouling soiling dirtying spoiling ruination destruction damage blight pestilence plague

Synonyms by register

Formal

pollution defilement adulteration tainting

Informal

mess dirt grime germs

Literary

blight stain taint

Antonyms

purity cleanness sterility sanitation wholesomeness untaintedness

Common collocations

  • water contamination
  • food contamination
  • environmental contamination
  • contamination levels
  • contamination risk
  • contamination prevention
  • contamination testing

Word family

noun contamination
verb contaminate
adjective contaminated
adverb contaminatingly

Usage note

Contamination often refers to the introduction of harmful substances into something. It can be used in both physical and abstract senses, such as the contamination of evidence or the contamination of one's mind.

Example sentences

  1. The contamination of the water made it unsafe to drink.
  2. The contamination of the soil made it difficult to grow crops.
  3. The contamination of the food caused many people to get sick.
  4. The contamination of the air made it hard to breathe.
  5. The contamination of the lake killed many fish.

Quotes

  • Contamination is a widespread problem that affects us all.
  • The contamination of our environment is a serious threat to our health and well-being.
  • We must take action to prevent contamination and protect our planet.

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