methacrylate

American  

[meth-ak-ruh-leyt] / mɛθˈæk rəˌleɪt /

noun

Chemistry.

1. an ester or salt derived from methacrylic acid.

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methacrylate British  

/ mɛθˈækrɪˌleɪt /

noun

1. any ester of methacrylic acid

2. See methacrylate resin

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methacrylate Scientific  

/ mĕth-ăk′rə-lāt′ /

1. An ester of methacrylic acid, having the general formula C ₄ H ₃ O ₂ R, where R is an organic radical. Methacrylates are used in the manufacture of plastics.

2. A resin derived from methacrylic acid.

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Etymology

Origin of methacrylate

First recorded in 1860–65; meth- + acryl(ic) + -ate ²

Example Sentences

The EPA says methyl methacrylate is irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes in humans.

From Barron's • May 24, 2026

The tank contains a toxic chemical known as methyl methacrylate, or MMA, which makes acrylic plastics and can cause eye, skin and breathing issues, according to the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 24, 2026

There are three large tanks with a highly toxic chemical called methyl methacrylate, or MMA, used to make plastic, at the site in the 12000 block of Western Avenue in Garden Grove.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2026

The tank in southern California contains an estimated 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate, a highly volatile and flammable substance used in the production of plastic.

From BBC • May 23, 2026

The crystal ball measures one inch in diameter and is actually made of genuine methacrylate which is crystal clear.

From A Practical Guide to Self-Hypnosis by Powers, Melvin