Meaning & Definition of word "Harmful"

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.