polyester

1 of 2

noun

poly·​es·​ter ˈpä-lē-ˌe-stər How to pronounce polyester (audio)
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 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
Subway ads for the series featured a shot of uniformed police officers, a burly polyester wall, with Preston seemingly poking her head in from out of frame, wearing a pink overcoat, a crocheted scarf and a foam Statue of Liberty crown. Phillip MacIak, New York Times, 21 Mar. 2024 This suit is up for the rainfall with its high-density polyester, non-woven fabric, and seamed seals, which work together to keep water out. Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 19 Mar. 2024 The 100% polyester material is machine washable and soft on the skin. Maya Polton, Parents, 18 Mar. 2024 The dress is constructed from a polyester non-stretch tweed material in a contrasting black and white pattern. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 12 Mar. 2024 Crafted with a heavyweight fabric, weather-resistant features, and a polyester fill, this outdoor throw pillow not only enhances your space aesthetically but also withstands the test of time. Christianna Silva, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Mar. 2024 The slightly stretchy polyester is quick-drying—perfect for swimming or, say, running through a sprinkler—and the elastic waistband adds even more give. Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 11 Mar. 2024 The lightweight polyester that they're made with is moisture-wicking and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 10 Mar. 2024 Made of 60% cotton and 40% polyester, the fabric is durable and thick. Andrea Wurzburger, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Mar. 2024
Adjective
Get a cap and gown for a cool photo op No graduation day is complete without a photo shoot in a tasseled cap and hot, sweaty, polyester robe, right? Lindsey Vickers, USA TODAY, 30 Apr. 2020 Start with polyester thermal underwear for the base layer. Deb Acord, Popular Mechanics, 22 Sep. 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'polyester.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of polyester was in 1922

Dictionary Entries Near polyester

Cite this Entry

“Polyester.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polyester. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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