ENGLISH
REFERENCE

PVC

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate pvc

n. Stands for polyvinyl chloride. A strong, light plastic used to make things like pipes, clothes, and medical equipment. It is very common because it is cheap and lasts a long time.

n. Abbreviation for polyvinyl chloride. A synthetic plastic polymer used extensively in construction and medical manufacturing. Often used as a modifier before another noun.


SIMPLE

The hospital uses PVC tubing for oxygen masks.

CONTEXTUAL

Medical professionals prefer PVC for intravenous bags because the material is flexible, durable, and easy to sterilize.

COMPLEX

While widely utilized in the medical industry for its chemical resistance, the disposal of PVC remains a significant environmental concern due to the release of toxic substances during incineration.

Usage

Often functions as a noun adjunct, appearing before other nouns like 'piping', 'tubing', or 'flooring'.

© 2026 English Reference