polythene

[ pol-uh-theen ]

noun

, Chemistry, British.

1. polyethylene.

polythene

/ ˈpɒlɪˌθiːn /

noun

1. 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 Systematic namepolyethene Also calledpolyethylene

Word History and Origins

Origin of polythene¹

First recorded in 1935–40; by shortening

Example Sentences

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

"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

Kenyan cult leader Paul Mackenzie lived with hundreds of followers in makeshift homes of polythene sheeting and thatch in a remote forest camp that he divided into areas with biblical names like Jerusalem and Judea, relatives of his adherents say.

From Reuters