HAZMAT

or haz·mat

[ haz-mat ]

noun

1. a material or substance that poses a danger to life, property, or the environment if improperly stored, shipped, or handled:

   regulations for transporting radioactive materials and other HAZMAT.

hazmat

/ ˈhæzˌmæt /

noun

1. 1. substances that pose a danɡer to public health
   2. ( as modifier )

      a hazmat suit

Word History and Origins

Origin of HAZMAT¹

An Americanism dating back to 1970–75; haz(ardous) + mat(erial)

Word History and Origins

Origin of HAZMAT¹

C20: haz ( ardous ) + mat ( erials )

Example Sentences

They quickly extinguished the fire in the back of a single-story commercial building and called in a hazmat team, she said.

From Los Angeles Times

It was day three of England's first lockdown and the front was surrounded by patients being treated by doctors in hazmat suits.

From BBC

But unless you wear a full-body hazmat suit doused in permethrin, your exposed skin will still be a target for mosquitoes.

From Los Angeles Times

Forensic workers could also be seen in white hazmat suits.

From BBC

Hazmat teams were called into his office at the National Institutes of Health; a few days later, the F.B.I. confirmed the powder was harmless.

From New York Times