Definition

A substance that makes the environment dirty or harmful, especially by contaminating air, water, or soil.

Example

The factory was fined for releasing a dangerous pollutant into the river.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new study on air quality?

Yeah, it's alarming how much pollutant levels have risen.

I know, it's scary to think about the impact on our health.

Exactly, we really need to find ways to reduce those pollutants.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pollutant → It is formed from "pollut-" (from Latin "polluere", meaning to defile or make dirty) and "-ant" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating an agent). The word "pollutant" refers to a substance that causes pollution or makes something dirty.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'makes dirty' ('pollut-') and the '-ant' means it is an agent doing the action. This helps you remember that a pollutant is something that causes pollution.

Visually Confused Words