latex

noun

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la·tex | \ ˈlā-ˌteks

plural latices\ ˈlā-tə-ˌsēz

, ˈla- \ or latexes

Definition of latex

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

Examples of latex in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The simulator consists of a cylindrical latex chamber with walls that can be contracted by rollers, mimicking the activity of the human stomach wall during digestion. — Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 29 Dec. 2021 It’s long-lasting, made of eco-friendly materials (such as GOLS certified organic latex and GOTS certified organic kapok), and supremely comfortable. — Esha Chhabra, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2021 Here's another mattress made of organic cotton, wool, and latex. — Julian Chokkattu, Wired, 29 Nov. 2021 And then there’s the kind of transformation that requires latex. — Alison Willmore, Vulture, 23 Nov. 2021 The long, bendable nose piece contours to the wearer's face while two latex bands wrap around the head to keep the mask snugly in place. — Chloe Irving, Health.com, 23 Dec. 2021 Those who have latex allergies and those allergic to avocados, bananas, chestnuts, kiwis, and passion fruits might have a greater chance of being allergic to poinsettia plants. — Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Nov. 2021 Its most prolific source is Jared Leto, who’s been encased in latex to play Paolo Gucci, the corduroy-loving lesser scion who tries to launch his own Gucci fashion line. — Alison Willmore, Vulture, 24 Nov. 2021 Expect to pay at least $1,500 for a quality latex bed. — Jillian Mueller, PEOPLE.com, 22 Nov. 2021

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'latex.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Last Updated

3 Jan 2022

Cite this Entry

“Latex.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/latex. Accessed 20 Jan. 2022.

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More Definitions for latex

latex

noun

English Language Learners Definition of latex

: 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)

See the full definition for latex in the English Language Learners Dictionary

latex

noun

la·tex | \ ˈlā-ˌteks

Kids Definition of latex

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

latex

noun

la·tex | \ ˈlā-ˌteks

plural latices\ ˈlāt-ə-ˌsēz

, ˈlat-

\ or latexes

Medical Definition of latex

: 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