PFAS

American  

[pee-fas] / ˈpiˌfæs /

noun

1. perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances: long-lasting chemicals used in cleaning products, cookware coating, fire-fighting foams, makeup, stain-resistant carpeting, etc., that remain in the environment because they break down very slowly, and subsequently accumulate within animals and people: among the substances known as forever chemicals.

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Etymology

Origin of PFAS

First recorded in 1990–95; by shortening

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

PFAS

Jersey Water told the BBC it was testing different methods of reducing PFAS, the results of which would come next year.

From BBC ● Jul. 21, 2026

More than 10,000 short-chain and long-chain industrial chemicals are classified as PFAS.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 20, 2026

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

There is not extensive research on the impacts of all PFAS, but some are proven to be toxic and carcinogenic - increasing the risk of kidney cancer and raising cholesterol.

From BBC ● Apr. 22, 2026

The chemicals, known as PFAS, don’t break down in the environment and accumulate in the body, potentially causing health problems such as cancer and infertility.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 13, 2026