Pollute/pəˈluːt/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Environmental Focus Used for actions harming nature, like releasing chemicals into rivers or smoke into the air. Industries must reduce practices that pollute our rivers. Pro Tip 2/3Physical Impact Refers to direct physical contamination of the natural world. Littering non-biodegradable waste can severely pollute the ocean. Pro Tip 3/3Health Relevance Emphasizes that pollution can affect health, leading to diseases or conditions. Cities with cars that pollute heavily often have higher asthma rates.