Pollute: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'pollute' comes from the Latin 'polluere,' which means 'to make dirty' or 'to defile.'
• Used in English as early as the 14th century, it initially described moral corruption before being applied to the environment.

Environmental Science

• Pollution can be divided into several types, including air, water, soil, and noise pollution, each impacting ecosystems differently.
• It's estimated that over 3 million deaths per year are directly linked to air pollution, illustrating the urgent need for cleaner air.
• Three primary pollutants found in the atmosphere are carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide, all of which can have serious health effects.

Cultural Perspectives

• Many cultures around the world view pollution as a reflection of social and moral failures, often leading to artistic expressions that address environmental concerns.
• In literature and art, pollution is frequently portrayed as a villain, representing human negligence against nature and the consequences that follow.

Regulations and Laws

• The Clean Air Act, passed in the U.S. in 1963, was one of the first laws aimed at controlling air pollution on a national level.
• Many countries have implemented policies and regulations, such as the Paris Agreement, to combat climate change and reduce pollution.

Public Health

• Pollution can lead to long-term health problems such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and various cancers.
• Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of pollution due to developing or weakened immune systems.

Positioned at #22,227, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

• ...
• 22224 login
• 22225 darn
• 22226 dealership
• 22227 pollute
• 22228 medley
• 22229 unheeded
• 22230 handcuffs
• ...