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pollute

verb

/pəˈlut/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of pollute

To contaminate or make something impure, typically by introducing harmful or unwanted substances into the environment or a specific area.
"Discarded plastic bags pollute the ocean, posing a threat to marine life."

Detailed meaning of pollute

Pollution can occur in various forms, including air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, and noise pollution. When pollutants are released into the air, they can contribute to the deterioration of air quality and harm the health of living organisms, including humans. Water pollution involves the introduction of harmful substances, such as chemicals, sewage, or industrial waste, into water bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans, causing damage to aquatic ecosystems and posing risks to aquatic life and human health. Soil pollution occurs when pollutants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, or industrial waste, contaminate the soil, making it unsuitable for plant growth or causing harmful effects on the environment and living organisms. Additionally, noise pollution refers to excessive or disruptive noise that can have negative impacts on human well-being, including stress, hearing loss, and interference with communication. Overall, the verb "pollute" encompasses the actions and processes of introducing harmful or unwanted substances into the environment, resulting in the degradation of ecosystems, endangerment of species, and negative consequences for human health and well-being.

Example sentences containing pollute

1. Companies must not pollute rivers, ensuring safe water for all inhabitants.
2. Laws exist so that industries don't pollute our oceans with waste.
3. To pollute nature is to harm the very essence of our existence.
4. Governments fight those who pollute to safeguard our Earth.
5. We must educate others not to pollute our beautiful parks.
6. Factories that pollute waters face severe penalties and fines.

History and etymology of pollute

The verb 'pollute' has its etymology rooted in the Latin word 'polluere,' which meant 'to defile' or 'to soil.' This Latin term was formed by combining 'por,' meaning 'before,' and 'luere,' meaning 'to wash or cleanse.' Therefore, 'polluere' conveyed the idea of something being made impure before cleansing or washing. Over time, this concept of contamination and impurity extended to describe the introduction of harmful or unwanted substances into the environment or a specific area. As languages evolved, 'pollute' emerged in Middle English, retaining the essence of making something impure or unclean. Its etymology highlights the connection between the historical understanding of defilement and the modern concern for environmental degradation and contamination, emphasizing the negative impact of introducing harmful substances into the surroundings.

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Further usage examples of pollute

1. To ensure clean air, cars should not pollute the atmosphere.
2. Our duty is to not pollute the environment for future generations.
3. Many pledge to never pollute, sustaining Earth’s natural beauty.
4. Vigilance is key; watch those who pollute and take action.
5. People must rise, act, and vow not to pollute Earth.
6. Children are taught early on not to pollute their surroundings.
7. We innovate to create technologies that don’t pollute our world.
8. Nature’s wrath is harsh on those who dare to pollute it.
9. The wise understand the dire costs when humans pollute nature.
10. Some ignore the pleas of Earth, continuing to pollute daily.
11. Many laws strive to restrain corporations that pollute carelessly.
12. Oceans are deep, yet not so deep that we can pollute endlessly.
13. Our skies, so vast and wide, yet vulnerable to those who pollute.
14. Cities thrive when their inhabitants resolve not to pollute the air.
15. The factory's emissions pollute the air, causing respiratory problems for nearby residents.
16. Carelessly dumped chemicals pollute the river, endangering fish and wildlife.
17. Industrial waste is known to pollute groundwater, making it unsafe for consumption.
18. Improper disposal of electronic waste can pollute the soil with toxic substances.
19. Excessive use of pesticides can pollute agricultural fields and harm beneficial insects.
20. The noise from construction sites can pollute the surrounding environment and disrupt residents' sleep.
21. Oil spills from tankers pollute the sea, causing widespread damage to coastal ecosystems.
22. The manufacturing plant's effluent pollutes the nearby stream, impacting aquatic organisms.
23. Airplanes flying at low altitudes can pollute the air with their engine emissions.
24. Improperly maintained vehicles can pollute the environment with exhaust emissions and contribute to air pollution.