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. )

Example Sentences

Denser sponges held up better over time and released fewer microplastic fibers, while less dense versions broke down more quickly.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2026

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs previously said 3G pitches were the biggest cause of "intentionally added microplastic pollution" in the environment.

From BBC • Mar. 6, 2026

A new sports centre is set to be approved despite concerns about the risk of microplastic contamination from an artificial pitch.

From BBC • Mar. 6, 2026

According to Loeb, this is the first Western study to measure microplastic levels in prostate tumors and compare them directly with levels in noncancerous prostate tissue.

From Science Daily • Feb. 25, 2026

They then used specialized instruments to measure the quantity, chemical composition, and structure of microplastic particles.

From Science Daily • Feb. 25, 2026