polyethylene

noun

poly·​eth·​yl·​ene ˌpä-lē-ˈe-thə-ˌlēn 

: a polymer of ethylene

especially : any of various partially crystalline lightweight thermoplastics (CH₂CH₂)_x that are resistant to chemicals and moisture, have good insulating properties, and are used especially in packaging and insulation

Examples of polyethylene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The more recent study took this material and turned it into a spandex alternative, developing both a stretchy core and a separate outer yarn to encase it out of polyethylene. — Sarah Jones, Footwear News, 10 Aug. 2026

In his free time, Tupper experimented with his own polyethylene creations, including a shaving cream dispenser with a self-closing cap and a clear belt with slots for inserting snapshots. — Shoshi Parks, Popular Science, 30 July 2026

Made from high-density polyethylene with a realistic wood-grain finish, the table and six chairs are designed to withstand the elements without fading, rotting, or warping. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 26 June 2026

Each rocker is made from all-weather high- density polyethylene (HDPE) that withstands rain, snow, and wind and resists fading, cracking, and rot. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

poly- + ethylene

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing polyethylene

• polyethylene glycol

Rhymes for polyethylene

• acetylene
• adamantine
• adenosine
• amphetamine
• anthropocene
• apoprotein
• aquamarine
• arsphenamine
• azobenzene
• buprenorphine
• catecholamine
• chlorobenzene

Kids Definition

polyethylene

noun

poly·​eth·​yl·​ene ˌpäl-ē-ˈeth-ə-ˌlēn 

: a lightweight plastic resistant to chemicals and moisture and used chiefly in packaging

Medical Definition

polyethylene

noun

poly·​eth·​yl·​ene ˌpäl-ē-ˈeth-ə-ˌlēn 

: a polymer of ethylene

especially : any of various lightweight thermoplastics (CH₂CH₂)_x that are resistant to chemicals and moisture and are used especially in packaging, insulation, surgical implants, prostheses, and tubing