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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
Advertisement The researchers also noted a correlation between the concentrations of PVC and polyethylene and testes weight: The higher the concentration, the lower the weight.
—Susanne Rust, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 2024
The polyethylene rattan cart features an opaque, spacious base cabinet with three separate storage shelves ideal for storing your ice bucket, homemade syrups, mixers, and glassware out of sight.
—Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2024
The chair supports a maximum of 350 pounds and is built to withstand rain and wind due to its use of high-density polyethylene materials.
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Apr. 2024
Some chemicals, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE), were found in all three brands.
—Kaitlin Sullivan, Health, 16 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for polyethylene
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'polyethylene.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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 10 Jun. 2024.
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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