Main Entry:

poly·eth·yl·ene

Pronunciation:

\-ˈe-thə-ˌlēn\

Function:

noun

Date:

1862

: 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