What is the term for water that is safe to drink?

The term for water that is safe to drink is "potable." This designation means that the water is free from harmful contaminants and pathogens, making it safe for human consumption. Potable water meets health and safety regulations set by government agencies. It is crucial for public health and is essential for drinking, cooking, and other personal uses.

In contrast, the other terms have different meanings. "Distilled" refers to water that has been purified through the process of distillation, where impurities are removed, but not all distilled water is guaranteed to be potable if it has not been treated to meet safety standards. "Aerated" refers to water that has been mixed with air, typically for aeration purposes in treatment processes, but does not imply that it is safe to drink. "Contaminated" water, on the other hand, contains harmful substances or pathogens, making it unsafe for consumption. This highlights the importance of understanding which terms appropriately denote the safety of drinking water.