neoprene

[ nee-uh-preen ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. an oil-resistant synthetic rubber: used chiefly in paints, putties, linings for tanks and chemical apparatus, and in sportswear and crepe soles for shoes.

neoprene

/ ˈniːəʊˌpriːn /

noun

1. a synthetic rubber obtained by the polymerization of chloroprene. It is resistant to oil and ageing and is used in waterproof products, such as diving suits, paints, and adhesives

neoprene

/ nē′ə-prēn′ /

1. A tough, synthetic rubber that is resistant to the effects of oils, solvents, heat, and weather. Neoprene is a polymer whose basic constituent is chlorinated butadiene. Neoprene was one of the first synthetic rubbers to be developed.

Word History and Origins

Origin of neoprene¹

First recorded in 1935–40; neo- + (chloro)prene

Word History and Origins

Origin of neoprene¹

C20: from neo- + pr ( opyl ) + -ene

Example Sentences

In one red carpet video she answers a question about victimhood by joking about her neoprene floral outfit: "You can go deep sea diving in it."

From BBC

Patagonia is collecting end-of-life wet suits for a partner that vaporizes them to reclaim what’s known as carbon black, a key ingredient in neoprene and in the natural rubber Patagonia uses.

From Seattle Times

I clenched my teeth as they strapped a fitted neoprene brace to my knee, despite how much the pain medication had helped to take away my discomfort.

From Literature

Don’t let Pacific Ocean temps deter you — neoprene is magic.

From Seattle Times

Some of Ghesquiere’s creations could easily emerge from the lake’s depths, with neoprene webbing creating wings on cropped tops and giving movement to flouncy skirts, fit for a freshwater mermaid.

From Seattle Times