Showing results for PFAS. Search instead for PFLAG.

PFAS

American

[pee-fas] / ˈpiˌfæs /

noun

perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances: long-lasting chemicals used in cleaning products, cookware coating, fire-fighting foams, makeup, stain-resistant carpeting, etc., that remain in the environment because they break down very slowly, and subsequently accumulate within animals and people: among the substances known as forever chemicals.

Etymology

Origin of PFAS

First recorded in 1990–95; by shortening

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Like other PFAS, they are highly persistent, build up in the body over time, and have been associated with toxic health effects.

From Science Daily • Feb. 26, 2026

A Consumer Reports review of 41 types of powdered infant formula last year found that about half contained detectable levels of contaminants such as arsenic, lead and “forever chemicals” known as PFAS.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 17, 2026

It will also make French authorities regularly test drinking water for all kinds of PFAS.

From Barron's • Dec. 30, 2025

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are man-made chemicals that date back to the 1940s.

From Science Daily • Dec. 25, 2025

Some liquid-based data centre cooling technologies use refrigerants that do contain PFAS.

From BBC • Dec. 22, 2025

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023