polythene

[ pol-uh-theen ]

noun

, Chemistry, British.

1. polyethylene.

polythene

/ ˈpɒlɪˌθiːn /

noun

1. any one of various light thermoplastic materials made from ethylene with properties depending on the molecular weight of the polymer. The common forms are a waxy flexible plastic ( low-density polythene ) and a tougher rigid more crystalline form ( high-density polythene ). Polythene is used for packaging, moulded articles, pipes and tubing, insulation, textiles, and coatings on metal Systematic namepolyethene Also calledpolyethylene

Word History and Origins

Origin of polythene¹

First recorded in 1935–40; by shortening