asbestos
noun
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A grayish mineral that separates readily into long, flexible fibers, asbestos was used in the past to make brake linings, insulation, roofing shingles, floor and ceiling tiles, cement pipes, and other building materials. Asbestos fabrics were used for safety apparel and theater curtains. In the 1970s, it was found that prolonged inhalation of the tiny asbestos fibers can cause asbestosis, lung cancer, and other serious lung diseases. In 1989, the US Government instituted a gradual ban on the manufacture, use, and export of most products made with asbestos.
Examples of asbestos in a Sentence
Jack Healy, New York Times, 20 Jan. 2025
An aide to Mayor Todd Gloria said the project ran into other problems besides the asbestos and the pandemic, including the installation of a new HVAC system.
—Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Jan. 2025
In the months that followed the 9/11 attack, first responders and residents were exposed to a hazardous mix of asbestos, silica dust, heavy metals and other dangerous chemicals left behind by the massive amounts of ash, dust and debris created when the towers collapsed.
—Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 17 Jan. 2025
The federal government already has approved spending $100 million to remove paints, cleaners, asbestos, batteries and other household waste from the rubble before crews can begin clearing debris.
—Michael R. Blood, Chicago Tribune, 16 Jan. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Asbestos.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asbestos. Accessed 24 Jan. 2025.
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asbestos
noun
Medical Definition
asbestos
noun
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