polythene

[pol-uh-theen]

noun

Chemistry, British.

1. polyethylene.

polythene

/ ˈpɒlɪˌθiːn /

noun

1. Also called: polyethylene. Systematic name: polyethene. 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of polythene¹

First recorded in 1935–40; by shortening

Example Sentences

Air India said an investigation later found "polythene bags, rags and clothes that had been flushed down and stuck in the plumbing" of the plane's toilets.

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"I come here to the dump in the morning, collect polythene bags, take them for washing and sell them," says Mr Prince.

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When they finally came his way, carefully wrapped in polythene, Saul sensed they were "precious cargo".

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"They would come in via a courier in a sealed polythene bag," he says, adding they would then be repacked and sent on for further study to hospitals, research departments or the Department of Health.

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People living in towns and cities use discarded cans, old newspapers, foil, cellophane and polythene bags as substitutes.

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