Definition:
The verb "pollute" means to make something dirty, impure, or harmful, usually by adding harmful substances. This often refers to the environment, like air, water, and land.
In more advanced contexts, "pollute" can also refer to non-physical impurities, like ideas or cultures. For example, "The misinformation can pollute public opinion."
Pollution (noun): The act of polluting or the state of being polluted.
Example: "Air pollution is a serious problem in many cities."
Pollutant (noun): A substance that causes pollution.
Example: "Chemicals from the factory are known pollutants."
While "pollute" primarily refers to making something dirty or harmful, it can also have a figurative meaning. For example, "to pollute a conversation" might mean to introduce negative or harmful ideas into a discussion.
Some words that have a similar meaning to "pollute" include: - Contaminate - Dirty - Taint - Spoil - Corrupt
Currently, there are no widely recognized idioms or phrasal verbs that incorporate the word "pollute." However, you might encounter phrases related to pollution, such as "clean up the mess," which refers to taking action to remove pollution.
To "pollute" means to make something impure or dirty, especially in the context of the environment.