toxic waste

[tok-sik weyst]

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.

toxic waste

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of toxic waste¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

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.

Read more on Barron's

Wildlife, water and toxic waste worries have been raised by people living near one of Europe's largest illegal landfill sites as officials look at clean-up options.

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The spill happened when a tailings dam, used to store toxic waste and heavy metals, collapsed into the Kafue River, a key drinking water source, following heavy rain.

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One by one, delegates at the United Nations expressed support for a new panel of scientists who would advise countries on how to address chemicals and toxic waste.

Read more on Salon

"Thailand has really borne the brunt of so much," says Jim Puckett, executive director of the Basel Action Network, an NGO that campaigns against the shipment of toxic waste.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• poison 
• pollution