polyester

1 of 2

noun

poly·​es·​ter ˈpä-lē-ˌe-stər 

ˌpä-lē-ˈe-

: any of a group of polymers that consist basically of repeated units of an ester and are used especially in making fibers or plastics

also : a product (such as a fiber or fabric) composed of polyester

polyesterification

ˌpä-lē-e-ˌster-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

noun

polyester

2 of 2

adjective

: characterized by inelegant or unsophisticated middle-class taste

polyester suburbs

polyester folks

Examples of polyester in a Sentence

Noun

The shirt is made of polyester.

The sheets are a cotton and polyester blend.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Alongside the app’s disappointment in the brand’s choice to use virgin polyester in its design--which, unlike recycled polyester, has not been previously used--the biggest issue Good On You found with the brand was its lack of transparency. — Elizabeth Grace Coyne, Forbes.com, 26 July 2026

Each quilt features a cotton-linen front, polyester fill, and a cotton reverse for unparalleled softness and breathability. — Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 July 2026

For instance, brands can opt for 100 percent polyester textiles and pair it with embellishments such as prints that are also polyester or woven into the garment rather than applied, reducing variety in components. — Sarah Jones, Footwear News, 21 July 2026

And that swishy polyester-spandex material offers UPF 50+ sun protection. — Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 21 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

poly- + ester

Adjective

from the assumed popularity of clothing made from polyester fabric among middle-class consumers

First Known Use

Noun

1922, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1975, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for polyester

• ancestor
• arrester
• digester
• investor
• protester
• requester
• semester
• sequester
• silvester
• trimester
• ester
• esther

Kids Definition

polyester

noun

poly·​es·​ter

ˈpäl-ē-ˌes-tər

: any of a group of polymers that consist basically of repeated units of an ester and are used chiefly in making fibers or plastics