contaminate
Pronunciation
Verb
B1 Intermediate
Quick answer
To make something impure or harmful by adding a dirty, poisonous, or unwanted substance.
Synonyms and antonyms
Usage notes
"Contaminate" is common in discussions of food safety, water quality, and environmental pollution.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "Chemicals from the factory _____ the nearby river."
Answer: contaminate
In your own words, what does "contaminate" mean?
To make something impure or harmful by adding a dirty, poisonous, or unwanted substance.
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