oil spill

American  

noun

1. an accidental release of oil into a body of water, as from a tanker, offshore drilling rig, or underwater pipeline, often presenting a hazard to marine life and the environment.

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Etymology

Origin of oil spill

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Flores, Sable’s chief executive, wagered that he could patch a leaky pipeline that once caused a disastrous oil spill, ship tens of thousands of barrels of crude to California’s refineries—and earn a windfall.

From The Wall Street Journal

The state has not seen new oil leases in federal waters since 1984, largely due to resident pushback following a disastrous oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara in 1969.

From Los Angeles Times

“This draft plan is an oil spill nightmare,” said Joseph Gordon, campaign director with the nonprofit ocean conservation organization Oceana.

From Los Angeles Times

Initial reports of an oil spill were received Tuesday afternoon, Meris said.

From Los Angeles Times

If there is an accident, like a billion-dollar oil spill, "good luck with trying to find somebody responsible to pick up any cost".

From BBC