Definition

Describing something that causes contamination or pollution.

Example

The factory was fined for its contaminative practices that harmed the local environment.

Conversation

I just read about how some plastics can be really contaminative to the environment.

That sounds concerning! I had no idea they could have such a negative impact.

Yeah, it makes me think twice about using plastic bags.

For sure! We should try to use reusable ones instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Contaminative → It is formed from "contaminare" (from Latin, meaning to make unclean or impure) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "contaminative" refers to something that has the nature of making something unclean or impure.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'makes unclean' ('contaminare') — that's why 'contaminative' describes something that causes contamination.

Visually Confused Words