Meaning & Definition of word "Pollute"
Pollute
/pəˈluːt/
verb:
- 1. to make (a substance or area) unclean or impure by introducing harmful or undesirable elements.
- Example: Industrial waste can pollute rivers and streams, harming aquatic life.
- 2. to contaminate with harmful substances or materials.
- Example: The chemical spill is expected to pollute the groundwater for years to come.
- 3. to make morally or spiritually unclean or corrupt.
- Example: The scandal threatened to pollute the reputation of the entire organization.
- 4. to render unwholesome or unsatisfactory.
- Example: Litter can pollute the beautiful landscape and diminish the natural experience.
Etymology
●Latin 'pollutus', past participle of 'polluere', meaning 'to defile, to violate'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pollute the atmosphere:
to release harmful substances into the air.
pollute one's mind:
to introduce negative or harmful thoughts.
pollute the waters:
to contaminate water sources.
Related Words
contamination:
the act of making something impure or unsuitable by contact with something unclean.
degradation:
the process of damaging or degrading something.
defilement:
the action of defiling something.
Slang Meanings of pollute
Meaning: to mess up or ruin something
● Example Sentence: Don't pollute my vibes with your negativity.
Meaning: to spoil the mood or atmosphere
● Example Sentence: He really polluted the party with his complaints.