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 It's filled with 100% polyurethane, and the pillowcase is removable as well as machine-washable. Jacqueline Laurean Yates, ABC News, 1 Apr. 2024 That, like most modern, non-wooden surfboards, was made with polyurethane foam. Drew Dawson, Journal Sentinel, 21 Mar. 2024 Designing a better cart One way to enhance durability is by changing the material of the wheels from the typical polyurethane to pricier rubber. Eva Rothenberg, CNN, 17 Feb. 2024 If using a sealant like polyurethane, it should be reapplied when there is damage to the surface. Katherine Owen, Southern Living, 27 Mar. 2024 The buttery-soft polyurethane material works as a water-resistant shield to keep your dog dry, while the interior faux-shearling is warm and cozy. Megan Schaltegger, Peoplemag, 6 Mar. 2024 Available in sizes 9 to 24 months, this waterproof raincoat is fully lined and coated with 100% polyurethane to keep your little one dry and toasty. Maya Polton, Parents, 14 Mar. 2024 Memory foam, on the other hand, is made from polyurethane. Sixteen Ramos, USA TODAY, 14 Jan. 2024 The mattress is made of a 100% cotton lining stuffed with polyester and polyurethane foam that offers a medium level of firmness. Jenna Clark, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Feb. 2024

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 24 Apr. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on polyurethane

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!