polystyrene

noun

poly·​sty·​rene ˌpä-lē-ˈstī-ˌrēn How to pronounce polystyrene (audio)
: a polymer of styrene
especially : a rigid transparent thermoplastic that has good physical and electrical insulating properties and is used especially in molded products, foams, and sheet materials

Examples of polystyrene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Thankfully, legislators in the Illinois legislature are working hard to phase out polystyrene foam, one of the worst kinds of single-use plastic. Chicago Tribune, 18 May 2025 Product Details: Cover Material: Stain-resistant, water-resistant fabric | Fill: Recyclable polystyrene beans | Care: Spot-clean | Product Weight: 4.75 lbs. Kathleen Felton, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 May 2025 Each 4-foot-wide panel includes solid-core polystyrene insulation, surrounded by pre-galvanized steel with a steel truss system. Jennifer Castenson, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025 While it’s made of polystyrene, the chair is designed with a textured wood-grain finish that provides a rustic, natural flair to your outdoor space. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for polystyrene

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polystyrene was in 1927

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Cite this Entry

“Polystyrene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polystyrene. Accessed 16 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

polystyrene

noun
poly·​sty·​rene ˌpäl-i-ˈstī(ə)r-ˌēn How to pronounce polystyrene (audio)
: a stiff transparent plastic used chiefly in molded products, foams, and sheet materials

Medical Definition

polystyrene

noun
poly·​sty·​rene ˌpäl-i-ˈstī(ə)r-ˌēn How to pronounce polystyrene (audio)
: a polymer of styrene
especially : a rigid transparent thermoplastic that has good physical and electrical insulating properties and is used especially in molded products, foams, and sheet materials

More from Merriam-Webster on polystyrene

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