polyester
Elementary (A2)
IPA: //ˈpɒliˌɛstər//
KK: /pɑˈliːɛstər/
adjective
Definition
Noted for lacking elegance or sophistication, often associated with a middle-class style.
Example
The decor in the room was quite polyester, lacking any unique or refined touches.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more polyester
Superlative: most polyester
Conversation
I found this shirt that looks really nice, but it's made of polyester.
Oh, I usually avoid polyester because it feels kind of cheap to me.
Yeah, I get that, but it was on sale and the color is perfect for summer.
True, if it looks good, you might as well go for it!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
common
ordinary
average
Antonyms
elegant
sophisticated
refined
noun
Definition
A type of fabric made from synthetic fibers that are strong, lightweight, and resistant to wrinkles and shrinking.
Example
The dress is made of polyester, making it easy to care for and durable.
Conversation
I just bought a new jacket made of polyester.
Oh nice! Is it really warm?
Yeah, and it’s also really light because of the polyester.
Root Explanation
Polyester → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "-ester" (from Latin "aestas", meaning summer, but in chemistry refers to a type of compound formed from an acid and an alcohol). The word "polyester" refers to a type of synthetic fiber made from many ester compounds.
Memory Tip
Think of 'many' ('poly-') types of compounds that are used to create a fabric — that's why polyester is made from many ester compounds.
Visually Confused Words
polesetter
pollster
polestar
oleaster
molester
yester
poster
pester