contaminate (B2)
verb
Pronunciation: /kənˈtæmɪneɪt/
Definition
To make something impure, polluted, or toxic by adding a harmful substance.
Examples
The oil spill threatened to contaminate the local water supply.
It is important not to contaminate the food with bacteria during preparation.
Scientists are concerned that industrial waste is contaminating the river.
How to Use contaminate
- contaminate with (prepositional phrase)
- To make something impure by adding a substance. — "The water was contaminated with bacteria."
- contaminate the environment (collocation)
- To pollute the natural surroundings. — "The chemical spill will contaminate the environment for years."
- contaminate food (collocation)
- To make food unsafe to eat by adding harmful substances. — "Wash your hands thoroughly to avoid contaminating food."
Synonyms of contaminate
Words with a similar meaning to contaminate:
Antonyms of contaminate
Words with the opposite meaning to contaminate:
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