Definition

The process of making something dirty or harmful by adding a substance that is not wanted.

Example

The contamination of the water supply caused health problems for the community.

Conversation

Have you heard about the water contamination issue in our town?

Yeah, it's really concerning. I hope they fix it soon.

It's scary to think about the effects of that kind of contamination on people's health.

Absolutely, we should stay informed and be careful about what we drink.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Contamination → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "taminare" (meaning to make unclean or to touch). The word "contamination" refers to the act of making something unclean or impure by coming into contact with something harmful or undesirable.

Memory Tip

Think of things being made 'unclean' when they come 'together' with something harmful — that's what contamination means.

Visually Confused Words