microplastic

American  

[mahy-kroh-plas-tik] / ˈmaɪ kroʊˌplæs tɪk /

noun

1. a tiny particle of plastic, especially one five millimeters or smaller, formed from the breakdown of plastic waste, shed from synthetic textiles, or intentionally added to various products.

   Microplastics are a problem because marine life mistakes the floating particles for food.

2. these tiny particles of plastic taken collectively.

   Microplastic is still used in some cosmetics and personal care products.

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Etymology

Origin of microplastic

First recorded in 1955–60; micro- ( def. ) + plastic ( def. )

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

microplastic

A few weeks later, the results showed 17 microplastic particles detected.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 17, 2026

Researchers are urging government to put in new regulations to insist processed food manufacturers test for microplastic contamination - similar to the legislation that already exists to prevent chemical contamination.

From BBC ● Jun. 19, 2026

Synthetic fabrics like polyester can shed microplastic fibres when they are washed.

From BBC ● Jun. 15, 2026

Compared with water use, microplastic emissions contributed a much smaller share of overall ecosystem damage.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 1, 2026

Kitchen sponges are a staple in most homes, but they may also be an overlooked source of microplastic pollution.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 1, 2026

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