biohazard

[ bahy-oh-haz-erd ]

noun

1. a pathogen, especially one used in or produced by biological research.
2. the health risk posed by the possible release of such a pathogen into the environment.

biohazard

/ ˌbaɪəʊˈhæzəd /

noun

1. material of biological origin that is hazardous to humans

biohazard

/ bī′ō-hăz′ərd /

1. A biological agent, such as an infectious microorganism, that constitutes a threat to humans or to the environment, especially one produced in biological research or experimentation.

Derived Forms

• ˌbioˈhazardous, adjective

Other Words From

• bio·hazard·ous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of biohazard¹

bio- + hazard

Example Sentences

In August there were 23 mostly minor assault reports, consistent with other months, but guards led to more biohazard and misconduct events reported, said Wright.

From Seattle Times

Others perched on the roof of a mosque that still stood, and a number appeared to be part of relief and rescue efforts, dressed in white biohazard suits and reflective vests.

From New York Times

The fluid is also considered a potential biohazard.

From Scientific American

For the finale, she peeled away the onesie to bare pasties emblazoned with blue-sequined biohazard symbols, drawing the upper registers of shrieking adulation.

From Los Angeles Times

Round a corner and out pops a slick airbrushed portrait of a demonic clown, or a biohazard symbol on a green and black gradient, scratched like a school desk.

From New York Times