Definition of latex
latices
play \ˈlā-tə-ˌsēz, ˈla-\ orlatexes
1 : a milky usually white fluid that is produced by cells of various seed plants (as of the milkweed, spurge, and poppy families) and is the source of rubber, gutta-percha, chicle, and balata
2 : a water emulsion of a synthetic rubber or plastic obtained by polymerization and used especially in coatings (such as paint) and adhesives
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Origin and Etymology of latex
New Latin latic-, latex, from Latin, fluid
First Known Use: 1832
LATEX Defined for English Language Learners
latex
playDefinition of latex for English Language Learners
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: a white fluid produced by certain plants that is used for making rubber; also : a similar material that is used for making various products (such as paint and glue)
LATEX Defined for Kids
latex
playDefinition of latex for Students
1 : a milky plant juice that is the source of rubber
2 : a mixture of water and tiny particles of rubber or plastic used especially in paints
Medical Dictionary
latex
playMedical Definition of latex
latices
\ˈlāt-ə-ˌsēz, ˈlat-\play play orlatexes
: a milky usually white fluid that is usually made up of various gum resins, fats, or waxes and often a complex mixture of other substances frequently including poisonous compounds, is produced by cells of various seed plants (as of the milkweed, spurge, and poppy families), and is the source of rubber, gutta-percha, chicle, and balata
Learn More about latex
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See words that rhyme with latex Spanish Central: Translation of latex Nglish: Translation of latex for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of latex for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about latex
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