polyurethane

noun

poly·​ure·​thane ˌpä-lē-ˈyu̇r-ə-ˌthān 

: any of various polymers that contain NHCOO linkages and are used especially in flexible and rigid foams, elastomers, and resins (as for coatings)

Examples of polyurethane in a Sentence

The floor will need two coats of polyurethane.

Recent Examples on the Web

Constructed with roomy, round toe boxes, removable polyurethane footbeds,grippy rubber outsoles, and supportive, flexible insoles, these sleek boots were built to wear all day comfortably. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 4 Nov. 2025

The two created a polyurethane midsole system called Daltoped that can incorporate recycled content — essentially scrap — that does not compromise performance for use in protective footwear production. —Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 4 Nov. 2025

It's also made from water-resistant polyurethane leather, so the blanket is durable, easy to clean, and provides a smooth, comfortable surface for sessions. —Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 20 Oct. 2025

The award annually recognizes outstanding technical advancement in the polyurethane industry. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 16 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for polyurethane

• diazomethane
• dichloroethane
• dichloromethane
• trichloroethane
• abstain
• airplane
• alkane
• arcane
• arraign
• attain
• backplane
• betaine