POLLUTANT Synonyms: 33 Similar and Opposite Words

pollutant

noun

pə-ˈlü-tᵊnt

Definition of pollutant

as in contaminant

something that is or that makes impure filtered the pollutants out of the water

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of pollutant This summer has seen record-smashing heatwaves across Europe, huge wildfires from Spain and France to Canada, which have released deadly pollutants into the air, and yet more extreme heat from Africa to Asia. — Catarina Rolfsdotter-Jansson, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026 These fun masks foam up on the skin to remove dirt, oil, debris, and other pollutants that can clog your pores. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2026 Improving raw ore, for instance, involves releasing water that is contaminated with radioactive pollutants, creating health issues for workers and local residents. — Gloria Xiong, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026 Our state has thousands of sites already polluted with toxic chemicals and other pollutants, and those projects affect air quality, safe drinking water and community health for millions of Californians. — Shannon Olivieri Hovis, Mercury News, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pollutant

Recent Examples of Synonyms for pollutant

Noun

Some food dyes made from natural ingredients can contain contaminants and may pose their own health risks, such as diabetes.

— Stephanie Armour, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026
In Keyport, New Jersey, a community's residents gathered to learn more about an investigation into contaminants found at an industrial park and neighboring former landfill and whether the contaminants could be affecting their air and water.

— Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of contaminant

Noun

Douglas claims the company failed to use safe food storage, handling and preparation practices, failed to inspect food and kitchen conditions for contamination and failed to eliminate harmful bacteria before serving the meal.

— Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026
Keep water in shatterproof containers with airtight lids to prevent contamination.

— Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of contamination

Browse Nearby Words

poll taxes

pollutant

pollutants

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“Pollutant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pollutant. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of pollutant

noun

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