polymerize

[ puh-lim-uh-rahyz, pol-uh-muh- ]

verb (used with object)

, po·lym·er·ized, po·lym·er·iz·ing.

1. to subject to polymerization.

verb (used without object)

, po·lym·er·ized, po·lym·er·iz·ing.

1. to undergo polymerization.

polymerize

/ pəˈlɪmə-; ˈpɒlɪməˌraɪz /

verb

1. to react or cause to react to form a polymer

Other Words From

• un·po·lymer·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of polymerize¹

First recorded in 1860–65; polymer + -ize

Example Sentences

A drawback particularly associated with ethylene 45 oxide is its tendency to polymerize during storage.

From Project Gutenberg

Left alone in a fuel air explosive weapon or other container, ethylene oxide tends to self polymerize.

From Project Gutenberg