contaminate
verb (used with object)
to make impure or unsuitable by contact or mixture with something unclean, bad, etc..
contaminates
-
present tense formof contaminate (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
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.
Cyclospora is a parasite that contaminates leafy greens, berries and herbs.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 3, 2026
“If a worker contaminates lettuce, that lettuce will likely be eaten before it becomes infectious,” Todd said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 17, 2026
In Italy if one resident contaminates the wrong bin, the whole block can expect a fine, she explains.
From BBC ● Feb. 25, 2026
He said other contaminates — food waste, dyes, adhesives, etc. — could also potentially cause problems.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 3, 2024
It should not make heroes of them, for in acting thus, it only confirms their morbid state, and often contaminates healthy-minded people.
From The Sexual Question A Scientific, psychological, hygienic and sociological study by Auguste Forel
