noun
- a lightweight, flexible plastic polymer used to make bags, bottles, and other containers
Usage: chemistry; materials science
Examples
- The grocery store switched from paper to polyethylene bags.
- Most plastic water bottles are made from polyethylene.
- Polyethylene wrap keeps food fresh in the refrigerator.
- The chemical plant produces thousands of tons of polyethylene annually.
- Recycling centers accept polyethylene containers marked with certain numbers.
- The polyethylene coating makes the fabric waterproof.