PFAS

[pee-fas]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of PFAS¹

First recorded in 1990–95; by shortening

Example Sentences

Forever chemicals, or PFAS, are a group of about 10,000 chemicals.

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"When we drink tap water, we are, depending on where you live, at varying levels of exposure to PFAS," Dr Amati said.

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Pam was left "speechless" to discover that waterproof or stain-resistant clothing can contain PFAS.

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Much of that absorbed chemical later returned to the environment, most likely because the cells broke apart -- a result that underscores both the usefulness and the challenges of relying on living microorganisms to capture or alter PFAS.

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Forever chemicals, or PFAS, are a group of thousands of substances used in everyday products.

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