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secondhand smoke
noun
: tobacco smoke that is exhaled by smokers or is given off by burning tobacco and is inhaled by persons nearby
Examples of secondhand smoke in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
There’s no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke.
—David Stempel, The Mercury News, 9 Nov. 2024
Smoking is the top risk factor for developing chronic bronchitis, but frequent exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, or a history of respiratory disease can also contribute.
—Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 22 Oct. 2024
Despite concerns about the health risks of secondhand smoke, Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday signed a bill that will allow cannabis dispensaries to serve hot food and nonalcoholic drinks.
—Laura J. Nelson, Los Angeles Times, 30 Sep. 2024
Newsom vetoed a similar bill last year over concerns that food workers and patrons could face health risks after being exposed to secondhand smoke.
—Laura J. Nelson, Los Angeles Times, 30 Sep. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1891, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near secondhand smoke
Cite this Entry
“Secondhand smoke.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/secondhand%20smoke. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
secondhand smoke
noun
: tobacco smoke that is exhaled by smokers or is given off by burning tobacco and is inhaled by persons nearby
Medical Definition
secondhand smoke
noun
sec·ond·hand smoke
ˌsek-ᵊn(d)-ˌhan(d)-
: tobacco smoke that is exhaled by a smoker or is given off by burning tobacco (as of a cigarette) and is inhaled by persons nearby
called also passive smoke
More from Merriam-Webster on secondhand smoke
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about secondhand smoke
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