polyethylene

American  

[pol-ee-eth-uh-leen] / ˌpɒl iˈɛθ əˌlin /

noun

Chemistry.

1. a plastic polymer of ethylene used chiefly for containers, electrical insulation, and packaging.

---

polyethylene British  

/ ˌpɒlɪˈɛθɪˌliːn /

noun

1. another name for polythene

---

polyethylene Scientific  

/ pŏl′ē-ĕth′ə-lēn′ /

1. Any of various artificial resins consisting of many ethyl groups (CH ₂ CH ₂) joined end to end or in branched chains. Polyethylenes are easily molded and are resistant to other chemicals. They can be repeatedly softened and hardened by heating and cooling, and are used for many purposes, such as making containers, tubes, and packaging.

---

Etymology

Origin of polyethylene

First recorded in 1935–40; poly- + ethylene

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

polyethylene

"The idea was simple. PVC, as one of the most activated forms of polyethylene, ought to be easily converted into some other molecules by replacing the chlorine atoms with other groups," Liu said.

From Science Daily ● Aug. 29, 2026

PET responded well to the alkaline treatment, but polyethylene and polypropylene initially produced less hydrogen.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 31, 2026

Dow noted that local prices increased 20% compared with a year ago, largely driven by gains in Packaging & Specialty Plastics, with higher polyethylene prices in all regions.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 23, 2026

SCG Chemical’s earnings should be aided by improved spreads for high-density polyethylene, polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride, the analyst says.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026

I'd wrap the notes in polyethylene, put it in a sandwich box, and stash it away.

From "Black Swan Green" by David Mitchell