contaminate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Understanding how this molecular gearbox works could help researchers develop ways to stop bacteria from forming biofilms, slimy communities that cause infections and contaminate medical devices.

From Science Daily • Mar. 13, 2026

The ground-level containers hide a chute to underground bins, one for recycling and one for general waste, that Hirra says are meant to be collected on different days so one doesn't contaminate the other.

From BBC • Feb. 25, 2026

Informal recycling is rife with hazards -- open burning, acid baths and unprotected dismantling expose workers to toxic fumes and contaminate soil and water.

From Barron's • Feb. 18, 2026

The aviation industry doesn’t dispute that oil and other aircraft fluids can contaminate the air on a flight, but says that the levels of chemicals released haven’t been shown to pose risk of serious illness.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 23, 2025

They do not, as one might expect, fall to their knees and kiss the carrier deck; this would violate, intrude upon, contaminate the deck, the vessel, the sea around, the whole earth.

From "The Lives of a Cell" by Lewis Thomas