Definition

Describing something that does not come from a specific, identifiable location, often used in the context of pollution that cannot be traced back to a single source.

Example

Nonpoint source pollution can be difficult to control because it comes from many different places.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new environmental report on water quality?

Yeah, they mentioned a lot of nonpoint pollution sources affecting the rivers.

It's crazy how much runoff from farms can impact our water, right?

Absolutely! It's hard to manage when the pollution isn't from just one place.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonpoint → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "point" (from Old French *point*, meaning a specific location or dot). The term "nonpoint" refers to sources that do not have a specific point of origin, particularly in environmental contexts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') having a specific 'point' — that's why nonpoint refers to sources that are not from a specific location.

Visually Confused Words