forever chemicals

[ fawr-ev-er kem-i-kuhlz, fer- ]

plural noun

1. long-lasting chemicals, including PFAS and hydrofluorocarbons, used in the manufacture of common household items such as refrigerators, nonstick cookware, and flame-resistant furniture, that remain in the environment because they break down very slowly, and subsequently accumulate within animals and people. biological accumulation ( def ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of forever chemicals¹

Coined by U.S. academic and public health expert Joseph G. Allen in an opinion piece in The Washington Post (2018)

Example Sentences

There may soon be a gentler—and cheaper—way to destroy persistent and dangerous “forever chemicals.”

From Science Magazine

California has recently banned the use of the forever chemicals in cosmetics, clothing, food packaging, cribs and firefighting foam.

From Los Angeles Times

The governor last year signed a $2 billion environment and climate bill that includes the strictest regulations on PFAs, or “forever chemicals” in the country.

From Los Angeles Times

They’re often referred to as the “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment.

From Los Angeles Times

Chemical and manufacturing groups sued the federal government late Monday over a landmark drinking-water standard that would require cleanup of so-called forever chemicals linked to cancer and other health risks.

From New York Times