toxic waste

American  

[tok-sik weyst] / ˈtɒk sɪk ˈweɪst /

noun

1. any hazardous waste that, when consumed or otherwise absorbed into the body, is harmful or fatal to people or other living organisms.

   Toxic waste containing lead and mercury had leached into their drinking water, and the number of poisoned residents was staggering.

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toxic waste Cultural  

1. A general term used to refer to chemical compounds produced by industry which, if they are ingested or breathed in by humans, can cause physiological damage. The disposal of toxic wastes is a major environmental problem in the United States.

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Etymology

Origin of toxic waste

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

These spaces help drain toxic waste products, including beta amyloid and tau proteins, which are found in high levels in people with Alzheimer's disease.

From Science Daily

In 2020 she broke the story that barrels of DDT’s toxic waste, last sent to the ocean floor decades ago by its biggest manufacturer, Montrose, were closer to Southern California’s shores than previously thought.

From Los Angeles Times

The fund’s 1,534 different holdings mean even catastrophic losses in one sector get diluted across the portfolio like toxic waste in a swimming pool.

From MarketWatch

But mining the metals requires heavy chemical use that results in toxic waste and has caused several environmental disasters.

From Barron's

Last month, local reports said some 20 people had been hospitalised with respiratory problems as the plant is accused of spewing toxic waste into the sea and air.

From Barron's

Related Words

• poison
• pollution