Definition

A type of plastic made from the polymerization of ethylene, commonly used for making containers, kitchen items, and packaging materials.

Example

The grocery store uses polyethylene bags for customers to carry their purchases.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of polyethylene?

Yeah, I know it's used for packaging and stuff.

Right! It's amazing how many things are made with polyethylene these days.

Totally! It's so versatile for so many different products.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polyethylene → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "ethylene" (from Greek "aithēr", meaning ether or vapor). The word "polyethylene" refers to a polymer made from many ethylene units, which are gaseous compounds.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') ethylene units coming together to form a material — that's what polyethylene is.

Visually Confused Words