polyethylene
n.n. a type of plastic that is very strong and flexible. It is used to make things like plastic bags, bottles, and containers.
n. a thermoplastic polymer derived from ethylene, characterized by high strength-to-density ratios and chemical inertness. It is the most widely produced synthetic polymer globally.
The plastic bottle is made of polyethylene.
Most grocery bags are manufactured from low-density polyethylene because it is lightweight and durable.
Engineers often choose polyethylene for industrial applications due to its resistance to moisture and its ability to withstand extreme temperatures without degrading.
From poly- + ethylene.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Nounethylene
- Nounpolyethylene
Last updated May 18, 2026