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 • Mar. 11, 2025

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

From Salon • May 16, 2023

"There are many who came back with nothing. At least I came back with a blanket," he said on arrival in Abuja, pointing to a man with a black polythene bag.

From BBC • May 6, 2023

In March, German researchers revealed a bug that feasts on toxic polyurethane, while earlier work has shown that wax moth larvae – usually bred as fish bait – can eat up polythene bags.

From The Guardian • Apr. 8, 2020

She got out of bed and looked at the oval travelling alarm clock On the wardrobe door, the cream-coloured linen suit hung, showing palely through its polythene.

From "I'm the King of the Castle" by Susan Hill