English · Word Candidate

asbestos

/æsˈbɛs.tɒs/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: asbestoses · asbesti · asbestosing · asbestosed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Any of several fibrous mineral forms of magnesium silicate, used for fireproofing, electrical insulation, building materials, brake linings, chemical filters, suits, fireman's gloves, etc.

Noun

Examples

All types of asbestos are potentially carcinogenic when inhaled.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Any of asbestos-like forms of several minerals, asbestiforms

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To coat or line with asbestos.

Verb

Examples

“Be sure you have plenty of kindling before you begin. They are rather non-inflammable and well asbestosed, so to speak.”

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To expose to asbestos; to cause to suffer asbestosis.

Verb

Examples

Lungs asbestosed / unable to breath^([sic]) / and so incapable / of producing for profit / sent away without delay / so a fresh lunged / could occupy / the vacant place.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “asbestos” mean?

Any of several fibrous mineral forms of magnesium silicate, used for fireproofing, electrical insulation, building materials, brake linings, chemical filters, suits, fireman's gloves, etc.

Is “asbestos” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.