# poly

/ˈpɑɫi/ (US) · /pˈɒli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/poly
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. a college

noun · CEFR B2 · British English · Informal

a polytechnic, which is a type of college that focuses on practical or technical subjects.

For teachers: a polytechnic college. This usage is primarily British and often refers to institutions that were converted into universities in the early 1990s.

- My dad studied engineering at the local poly before it became a university.
- Before the 1992 reforms, many students preferred the vocational focus of a poly over the more theoretical approach of traditional universities.

Usage: Usually used with 'the' when referring to a specific local institution.

Teaching tip: In the UK, most 'polys' are now officially universities, so this term is increasingly used by older generations or in a historical context.

### 2. plastic or fabric

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal · Technical

a short way to say polyester, polyethylene, or other plastic materials.

For teachers: a clipping for various polymers, including polyester, polyethylene, or polyurethane, depending on the industry.

- This shirt is a poly-cotton blend, so it doesn't wrinkle easily.
- The manufacturer switched to a high-density poly for the casing to improve the product's impact resistance.

Usage: Often appears as a prefix in compound words like 'poly-tunnel' or 'poly-blend'.

### 3. polyamory

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal · Slang

a person who has more than one romantic partner at the same time, or the practice itself.

For teachers: a clipping for polyamory or a polyamorous person; refers to the practice of engaging in multiple romantic relationships with the consent of all involved.

- They have been poly for years and find that it works well for their family.
- The community centre hosted a meetup for people who identify as poly to discuss navigating complex relationship dynamics.

Teaching tip: This is a modern social term; it can be used as both a noun for the person and an adjective for the lifestyle.

### 4. polyamorous

adjective · CEFR C1 · Informal · Slang

describing a person or relationship that involves more than one partner.

For teachers: relating to polyamory; used as a predicative or attributive adjective in informal registers.

- She is in a poly relationship and is very happy with her partners.
- Navigating poly dynamics requires a high level of communication and emotional intelligence from everyone involved.

## Examples

- The new jacket is made from a warm poly blend.
- The contractor recommended a high-gloss poly finish to protect the new hardwood floors from scratches.
- While natural fibers are often preferred for breathability, modern poly blends offer superior durability and moisture-wicking properties for high-performance athletic wear.

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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.