polycarbonate

noun

poly·​car·​bon·​ate ˌpä-lē-ˈkär-bə-ˌnāt How to pronounce polycarbonate (audio)
-nət
: any of various tough transparent thermoplastics characterized by high impact strength and high softening temperature

Examples of polycarbonate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The polycarbonate shell is designed with impact-absorbing flexibility, while the ridged exterior helps disguise any surface scratches. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025 Its futuristic shape is defined by a vessel-like structure decked in mirror-finish thermoregulatory polycarbonate, with the brand’s signature half-star, red logo standing out on top. Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2025 The outer barrel is a sturdy polycarbonate, and the lens includes dust and splash protection, along with anti-smudge fluorine on its front glass. PC Magazine, 23 Sep. 2025 The case is otherwise similar to the Modern Leather Case, with a polycarbonate frame wrapped around the supple Horween leather. Julian Chokkattu, Wired News, 20 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for polycarbonate

Word History

Etymology

poly- + carbonate entry 1

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polycarbonate was in 1930

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Cite this Entry

“Polycarbonate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polycarbonate. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

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