Contaminate

usgb/kənˈtæmɪneɪt/Volume
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Physical PresencePlay
Contamination often requires direct contact with the harmful substance. SlideThe sterile bandage was contaminated by dirty hands.
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Not Always VisiblePlay
Impurities from contamination might not be visible to the naked eye. SlideThe water looked clean, but was contaminated with bacteria.
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Negative ImplicationPlay
'Contaminate' implies harm or degradation, not just change. SlideThe pranksters contaminated the town's fountain with dye.