adulterate

/əˈdʌltərɪt/

Definitions

1. verb

to make something impure or of lower quality by adding a foreign or inferior substance

“The company was accused of adulterating the food with artificial preservatives.”

2. verb

to corrupt or bribe someone, especially in a position of power

“The politician was accused of being bribed and thus adulterating the justice system.”

3. verb

to make something seem more exciting or interesting than it really is

“The movie was criticized for trying to adulterate the true story with fictional events.”

4. noun

the act of making something impure or of lower quality

“The adulteration of the water supply was a serious health hazard.”

5. noun

the act of corrupting or bribing someone

“The politician’s office was accused of adultery and corruption.”

Synonyms

  • contaminate
  • debase
  • pollute
  • taint

Antonyms

  • clarify
  • cleanse
  • purify
  • refine