polluted

Polluted is an adjective used to describe something that has been contaminated by unwanted or harmful substances, making it impure or dangerous. The term is most often applied to natural environments such as air, water, and soil, but it can also describe food, products, or even reputations that have been tainted by contamination or corruption. The corresponding verb is pollute.

The word derives from the Latin pollutare, meaning to soil or contaminate. In scientific, legal, and policy contexts, polluted is used to indicate contamination with pollutants that exceeds established standards or guidelines, signaling potential risks to health, ecosystems, or quality.

Environmental pollution is commonly discussed in terms of air, water, and soil. Air pollution involves particulates and gases that reduce air quality and harm health. Water pollution refers to the presence of contaminants such as chemicals, nutrients, pathogens, or oil in bodies of water. Soil pollution includes heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and other contaminants that impair soil health and crop safety. Pollutants can be chemical, biological, or physical and originate from sources such as industrial emissions, wastewater discharge, agricultural runoff, improper waste disposal, mining, and oil spills. Effects include health risks for humans, harm to wildlife and ecosystems, and economic costs related to cleanup and protection.

Assessment relies on indicators and standards like air quality indices and water quality guidelines. Responses include prevention, treatment, remediation, and regulatory measures to reduce current pollution and prevent future contamination.