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 bill doesn't outright ban all bodyboards, including those made of more durable materials such as high-density polyethylene or polypropylene. —Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 12 Dec. 2025

The upper is made of Dyneema, a polyethylene fiber with a better strength-to-weight ratio than Kevlar. —Outside, 9 Dec. 2025

This pick in particular is made from sturdy high-density polyethylene that’s heavy enough to stay upright if a strong gust of wind blows through and resists wear in extreme weather conditions. —Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 9 Dec. 2025

Now more than 40% off, these chairs are oversized for a comfy, cozy style and are made with quality polyvinyl and polyethylene materials that won’t degrade over time. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

poly- + ethylene

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing polyethylene

• polyethylene glycol

Rhymes for polyethylene

• antisubmarine
• catecholamine
• dichlorobenzene
• dimethylamine
• diphenylamine
• ethanolamine
• hydroxylamine
• isobutylene
• mercaptopurine
• nucleoprotein
• penicillamine
• phenothiazine

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