Contaminated

Contaminated describes a substance or environment that has been polluted or rendered impure by the addition of a harmful substance, infectious agent, or undesirable element. This addition degrades the original quality, safety, or usability of the item or space. The process of contamination can occur through various means, including physical contact, airborne particles, or chemical reactions. The degree of contamination varies significantly depending on the type and concentration of the contaminant, as well as the sensitivity of the system being affected. This state often poses risks to health, the environment, or the functionality of equipment or systems.

Contaminated meaning with examples

• The local water supply was deemed Contaminated after a nearby factory released industrial waste, affecting the drinking water with dangerous chemicals. Residents were advised to boil their water or use bottled alternatives to prevent serious health problems. The city worked on remediation of the water system, attempting to cleanse it back to health standards.
• Archaeologists were cautious about the discovery of ancient artifacts in a newly unearthed tomb. They suspected the site could be Contaminated with harmful bacteria or fungi, potentially causing illness if exposed. Protective gear and strict sterilization protocols were thus employed to ensure their safety.
• Due to concerns about cross-contamination, the hospital staff took great precautions, using sterile equipment and implementing rigorous hygiene practices to prevent the spread of infections from one patient to another. The use of hand sanitizer was mandatory.
• A scientist found that a batch of experimental samples was Contaminated, compromising the integrity of the research and the results. The team was faced with the painstaking task of discarding the flawed materials and beginning their studies once more from scratch to achieve accurate findings.