forever chemicals

American  

[fawr-ev-er kem-i-kuhlz, fer-] / fɔrˈɛv ər ˌkɛm ɪ kəlz, fər- /

plural noun

1. long-lasting chemicals, including PFAS and hydrofluorocarbons, used in the manufacture of common household items such as refrigerators, nonstick cookware, and flame-resistant furniture, that remain in the environment because they break down very slowly, and subsequently accumulate within animals and people.

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Etymology

Origin of forever chemicals

Coined by U.S. academic and public health expert Joseph G. Allen in an opinion piece in The Washington Post (2018)

Example Sentences

He also worries about persistent liabilities tied to cleaning up so-called forever chemicals, PFAS, which 3M once produced and have been found in water supplies. 3M has reserved billions of dollars for cleanup.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

The Texas attorney general is investigating Lululemon Athletica for allegedly using so-called forever chemicals in its workout gear.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Often referred to as "forever chemicals," many of these substances do not break down easily and can build up in the environment and inside the human body.

From Science Daily • Mar. 21, 2026

Hundreds of Belgians living near a 3M plant have sued the US multinational maker of Post-it and Scotch tape over pollution from so-called "forever chemicals" in a trial that opens on Tuesday.

From Barron's • Feb. 24, 2026

The UK is to increase testing for so-called "forever chemicals" as part of a national plan to tackle the substances, which have prompted environmental and health concerns.

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2026