thermoplastic

[ thur-muh-plas-tik ]

adjective

1. soft and pliable when heated, as some plastics, plastics, without any change of the inherent properties.

noun

1. a plastic of this type.

thermoplastic

/ ˌθɜːməʊplæˈstɪsɪtɪ; ˌθɜːməʊˈplæstɪk /

adjective

1. See thermosetting
   (of a material, esp a synthetic plastic or resin) becoming soft when heated and rehardening on cooling without appreciable change of properties Compare thermosetting

noun

1. a synthetic plastic or resin, such as polystyrene, with these properties

thermoplastic

/ thûr′mə-plăs′tĭk /

1. Of or relating to a compound that can be repeatedly made soft and hard through heating and cooling. Polyethylene and polystyrene are thermoplastic resins.
2. Compare thermosetting

Derived Forms

• thermoplasticity, noun

Other Words From

• ther·mo·plas·tic·i·ty [thur-moh-pla-, stis, -i-tee], noun
• nonther·mo·plastic adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of thermoplastic¹

First recorded in 1880–85; thermo- + plastic

Example Sentences

After sewing, manufacturers fuse thermoplastic tape with heat and pressure over the seams to prevent this.

From Popular-Science

This stiff thermoplastic sheath serves a similar purpose of adding responsiveness and propulsion underfoot, yet with some added flexibility.

From Outside Online

Made of thermoplastic polyurethane, it can absorb falls but doesn’t add bulk.

From Popular-Science

It comes vet recommended and is made from a rugged thermoplastic polymer that is perfect for moderate and in most cases, severe chewers.

From Popular-Science