asbestos
noun
Did you know?
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
Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Oct. 2025
Mesothelioma has been linked to asbestos exposure.
—Reuters 14 Hr Ago, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2025
The carpet covered tile that, if disturbed, could expose children to asbestos, however a district spokesperson told KCRA that the removal of the carpet did not cause asbestos exposure.
—Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 6 Oct. 2025
The removal of the carpet did not cause a disturbance that would cause exposure to asbestos.
—David Chiu, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for asbestos
Cite this Entry
“Asbestos.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asbestos. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
asbestos
noun
Medical Definition
asbestos
noun
az-
Share