Definition

To make something contaminated again after it has been cleaned or purified.

Example

The factory was fined for allowing waste to recontaminate the river after it had been cleaned.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I just cleaned the kitchen, but I’m worried it might recontaminate if I don’t be careful.

Yeah, that can definitely happen if you’re not cautious.

I guess I should store the food properly to avoid that.

Good idea! Keeping it sealed will help prevent any recontamination.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Recontaminate → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "contaminare" (from Latin, meaning to make impure or to pollute). The word means to make something impure or polluted again after it has been cleaned or purified.

Memory Tip

Think of 'again' ('re-') and 'making impure' ('contaminare') to remember that recontaminate means to make something impure again.

Visually Confused Words