Definition

To shape a material, especially plastic, by heating it and then forming it into a specific shape, often using pressure.

Example

The factory uses a process to thermoform plastic sheets into containers.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever seen how they thermoform plastic for packaging?

Yeah, it's pretty fascinating to watch!

I was surprised at how quickly they shape it with heat.

Right? It’s amazing how effective that process is.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thermoform is formed from "thermo-" (from Greek "thermos", meaning heat) and "form" (from Latin "formare", meaning to shape or mold). The word describes the process of shaping materials using heat.

Memory Tip

Think of 'heat' ('thermo-') being used to 'shape' ('form') materials — that's how thermoform works.

Visually Confused Words