Hazardous
ˈhæzərdəs
Definitions
Involving or exposing someone to risk or danger; dangerous.
ˈhæzərdəs
Involving risk or danger
The chemicals used in the factory are hazardous to the environment.
💡 Simply: Something is hazardous if it could hurt you or cause problems. Like, a broken wire is hazardous because you could get shocked.
👶 For kids: Something that could hurt you, like a hot stove or a sharp knife.
More Examples
Climbing the mountain without proper equipment is a hazardous activity.
Extreme weather conditions created hazardous driving conditions.
How It's Used
"The disposal of hazardous waste requires strict regulations."
"Construction workers must wear protective gear when working in hazardous environments."
"Smoking is hazardous to your health."
Idioms & expressions
hazardous waste
Waste materials that pose a substantial threat or potential hazard to public health or the environment.
"The proper disposal of hazardous waste is a significant environmental concern."
hazardous material
A substance or material capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health and safety or property when transported in commerce.
"The transport of hazardous materials requires special permits."
From Middle English 'hasardous,' derived from 'hazard' (a chance or risk), itself from Old French 'hasard' (a game of chance, risk).
The word 'hazardous' started to appear with its modern meaning in the late 17th century, coinciding with the growth of industrialization and awareness of workplace dangers.
Memory tip
Think of a HAZARD sign. Anything with a hazard is HAZARDOUS.
Word Origin
"chance, risk"