polyurethane

noun

poly·​ure·​thane ˌpä-lē-ˈyu̇r-ə-ˌthān How to pronounce polyurethane (audio)
: 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 Made of non-toxic PU (polyurethane) outside, there are cotton cushioning layers on the top and bottom of the blanket, making for a comfortable experience. Andrea Wurzburger, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 July 2023 The inner chamber is filled with a mix of polyurethane foam and polyester fiber fill, and the outer cover is removable and machine-washable. Alida Nugent, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Sep. 2023 The bag’s shell is TPU, or thermoplastic polyurethane, and this is the reason why the Black Hole Duffel is so recognizable. Kevin Cortez, Popular Mechanics, 8 Sep. 2023 For those with ethical qualms about animal products, there are synthetic alternatives such as polyurethane (PU). Annie Midori Atherton, Washington Post, 8 Sep. 2023 The Therm-a-rest Compressible Pillow features top-notch construction, including a super-soft polyester outer shell and polyurethane foam fill. Sarah Kester, Travel + Leisure, 29 Aug. 2023 Design-wise, the limited-edition case is only available in black and features fortified TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane — a soft, rubber-like plastic) bumpers that surround the iPhone 14 Pro’s display, corners, and camera lenses. Jess Weatherbed, The Verge, 20 June 2023 Most vegan leathers are made from polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which can release microplastics into the environment. Time, 9 Aug. 2023 Whitewashed for a casual look and coated with polyurethane to protect the finish, planked walls evoke the ageless character of old Gulf-front beach houses. 06 Casual Living Room This beach house's living room mixes different furnishings for a relaxed feel. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'polyurethane.' 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

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polyurethane was in 1939

Dictionary Entries Near polyurethane

Cite this Entry

“Polyurethane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polyurethane. Accessed 1 Oct. 2023.

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