nonradioactive

UK: ˌnɒnˌreɪdiəʊˈæktɪv | US: ˌnɑːnˌreɪdioʊˈæktɪv

Definition

  1. adj. not emitting or relating to the emission of ionizing radiation or particles.

Structure
non <not>radio <radiation>active <acting>
Etymology

The word "nonradioactive" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Non-" (from Latin non meaning "not") negates the following term.
  2. "Radio-" (from Latin radius meaning "ray" or "radiation") refers to electromagnetic waves or nuclear emissions.
  3. "-Active" (from Latin activus meaning "doing, acting") indicates a state of operation or effect.
    The term emerged in the 20th century with advancements in nuclear science, logically forming a negation of "radioactive" to describe substances that do not emit radiation.
Examples

  1. The lab confirmed the sample was nonradioactive and safe for handling.

  2. Nonradioactive isotopes are often used in medical diagnostics.

  3. This material is nonradioactive, unlike its synthetic counterpart.

  4. The geologist prioritized nonradioactive rocks for the classroom demonstration.

  5. Ensure all waste in this container is nonradioactive before disposal.