polyolefin

noun

poly·​ole·​fin ˌpä-lē-ˈō-lə-fən How to pronounce polyolefin (audio)
: a polymer of an alkene (such as polyethylene)

Examples of polyolefin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But polyolefins are commonly used in the food industry for packaging, so this could be a reason why, the authors said. — Kristen Rogers, CNN, 25 Mar. 2025 Everyday items including milk jugs, grocery bags, takeout containers and even ropes are made from a class of polymers called polyolefins. — Emma Rettner, The Conversation, 19 Oct. 2023 Made from durable and recyclable polyolefin plastic, the chair and sofa designs could be inflated at home using only a hair dryer. — Jeremy White, Wired News, 26 Apr. 2026 The polyolefins Marks is referring to are what trash bags, plastic wrap, squeeze bottles, and other disposable single-use packaging are made of. — Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 7 Sep. 2025 That’s thanks in large part to its midsole, which is made of polyolefin (POE), a softer, more durable material than standard EVA. — Outside, 9 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polyolefin was in 1930

Rhymes for polyolefin

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Browse Nearby Words

polyoicy
polyolefin
polyomavirus
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Cite this Entry

“Polyolefin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polyolefin. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on polyolefin

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about polyolefin

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