polythene

American  

[pol-uh-theen] / ˈpɒl əˌθin /

noun

Chemistry, British.

1. polyethylene.

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polythene British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of polythene

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.

From BBC

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

From BBC

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

From BBC

"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.

From BBC

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

From Salon