Meaning & Definition of word "Harmful"
to
Harmful
/ˈhɑːrmfəl/
adjective:
- 1. Causing or capable of causing damage or injury.
- Example: The chemicals in that product are harmful to the environment.
- 2. Having a negative effect on health or well-being.
- Example: Excessive sugar consumption can be harmful to your health.
- 3. Destructive or hurtful in nature.
- Example: The rumor spread by the gossip was harmful to her reputation.
- 4. Tending to cause physical or psychological harm.
- Example: Secondhand smoke is known to be harmful to children.
- 5. Detrimental or unfavorable.
- Example: Lack of sleep can have harmful effects on cognitive function.
Etymology
Middle English: from harm + -ful.
Common Phrases and Expressions
harmful effects:
negative consequences that can cause damage or suffering.
harmful environment:
a setting that poses dangers or risks to health and safety.
harmful substances:
materials that can cause damage to living organisms.
Related Words
harm:
to cause physical or emotional damage.
injury:
damage or harm done to a person or thing.
detrimental:
causing harm or damage.
Slang Meanings of harmful
Meaning: bad for you
Example Sentence: Those junk foods are really bad for you, totally harmful.
Meaning: toxic
Example Sentence: That relationship became so toxic, it was harmful to my mental health.