# PLA

/ˈpɫɑ/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pla
Updated: 2026-05-10

## Definition

Stands for polylactic acid. A type of plastic made from natural things like corn. It is often used in 3D printers because it is easy to work with and better for the environment than other plastics.

For teachers: Abbreviation for polylactic acid. A biodegradable polyester derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch or sugarcane. Frequently used as a filament in fused deposition modeling 3D printing due to its low melting point and minimal warping.

## Examples

- I bought a new roll of red PLA for my 3D printer.
- Most hobbyists prefer printing with PLA because it does not produce the unpleasant fumes associated with ABS plastic.
- While PLA is marketed as biodegradable, it requires specific industrial composting conditions to break down effectively, making its environmental impact more nuanced than simple household disposal would suggest.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before other nouns, such as 'PLA filament' or 'PLA plastic'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.