Asbestos (noun)

1. A heat-resistant fibrous silicate mineral that can be woven into fabrics, and is used for fireproofing and insulation.
2. A fibrous mineral that is heat resistant and can be woven into fabrics, used for insulation, fireproofing and other industrial purposes.

Origin:

Mid 16th century: via latin from greek, from a- "not" + sbestos "extinguishable" (because of its heat resistance).

Examples:

1. The building was insulated with asbestos.
2. The asbestos was removed from the school as it was deemed unsafe.
3. The asbestos in the ceiling was causing health concerns.
4. Asbestos was commonly used in the past as a fireproofing material.
5. The asbestos exposure caused serious health issues for the workers.