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polyethylene
noun
poly·eth·yl·ene
ˌpä-lē-ˈe-thə-ˌlēn
: a polymer of ethylene
especially
: any of various partially crystalline lightweight thermoplastics (CH2CH2)x that are resistant to chemicals and moisture, have good insulating properties, and are used especially in packaging and insulation
Examples of polyethylene in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The planter is designed with recycled, high-grade polyethylene to avoid fading in the hot summer sun and cracking in cold winters.
—Rachel Ahrnsen, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Jan. 2025
The polyethylene also creates greater resiliency against uplift.
—Nollyanne Delacruz, The Mercury News, 24 Dec. 2024
Most research around microplastics pollution focus on materials like polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polystyrene (PS) that have become ubiquitous in modern life.
—Laurie Winkless, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024
The internal cabling has been upgraded, with a polyethylene dielectric and Linear Crystal Oxygen Free Copper conductors for optimal signal transfer.
—Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1862, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing polyethylene
Dictionary Entries Near polyethylene
Cite this Entry
“Polyethylene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polyethylene. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
polyethylene
noun
poly·eth·yl·ene
ˌpäl-ē-ˈeth-ə-ˌlēn
: a lightweight plastic resistant to chemicals and moisture and used chiefly in packaging
Medical Definition
polyethylene
noun
poly·eth·yl·ene
ˌpäl-ē-ˈeth-ə-ˌlēn
: a polymer of ethylene
especially
: any of various lightweight thermoplastics (CH2CH2)x that are resistant to chemicals and moisture and are used especially in packaging, insulation, surgical implants, prostheses, and tubing
More from Merriam-Webster on polyethylene
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about polyethylene
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