contaminant
UK: kənˈtæmɪnənt | US: kənˈtæmɪnənt
n. a substance that makes something impure or harmful by contact or mixture.
n. (ecology) a pollutant introduced into the environment.
contaminant = contam<defile> + in<in> + ant<noun suffix>
- contam (from Latin contaminare "to defile, pollute")
- in (Latin preposition "in," indicating state or condition)
- ant (noun-forming suffix, denoting an agent or substance)
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin contaminare ("to defile"), the word evolved through Old French contaminer before entering English. The suffix -ant was added to form a noun indicating "a substance that pollutes." The morpheme contam- preserves the core idea of corruption, while -in- and -ant structurally adapt it into a modern English noun.
The chemical spill released a dangerous contaminant into the river.
Air filters help remove contaminants from indoor environments.
Scientists detected trace contaminants in the drinking water supply.
The lab tests confirmed the presence of bacterial contaminants.
Strict regulations limit industrial contaminants in food production.