Deleterious Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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deleterious
[dษชหlษชtษหriษs ]
Definition
Context #1 | Adjective
harmful effects
Causing harm or damage; injurious. Deleterious effects of smoking on health are well-documented.
Synonyms
damaging, detrimental, harmful, injurious, noxious.
Examples of usage
- The deleterious impact of pollution on the environment is evident.
- The chemicals in the cleaning products have deleterious effects on human health.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health
- Certain chemicals in the environment can be deleterious, affecting both human health and ecosystems.
- Studies show that prolonged exposure to stress can have deleterious effects on mental and physical health.
- Even overeating can be deleterious, leading to obesity and related diseases.
Psychology
- Negative thought patterns can have a deleterious impact on a person's self-esteem and overall mental health.
- Social isolation is often identified as a deleterious factor affecting emotional well-being.
- Certain relationships, if toxic, can be deleterious to personal growth and happiness.
Environmental Science
- Pollution is considered deleterious to wildlife, damaging habitats and reducing biodiversity.
- Invasive species can have deleterious effects on local ecosystems by outcompeting native species.
- Climate change introduces a range of deleterious impacts, including extreme weather and habitat loss.
Literature
- In literature, characters often face deleterious choices that lead to conflict and resolution.
- Classic tales of moral dilemmas often highlight the deleterious consequences of greed or betrayal.
- Authors frequently explore how societal norms can have deleterious effects on individuals' lives and choices.
Origin of 'deleterious'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek word 'deleterios,' which means 'noxious' or 'harmful.'
- It entered the English language in the late 19th century, showcasing the growing interest in health and medicine.
- Related terms include 'deleteriousness,' which emphasizes the quality of being harmful.
The word 'deleterious' has Latin roots, deriving from the Latin word 'deleterius', meaning 'hurtful' or 'destructive'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century. Over time, 'deleterious' has been used to describe substances, actions, or effects that are harmful or damaging in nature.