“+ noun
Etymology: poly- + ethylene
: a polymer of ethylene ; especially : one of a group of partially crystalline lightweight thermoplastics (−CH 2 CH 2 −) x that have good resistance to chemicals, low moisture absorption and good insulating properties, that vary from soft to hard and from tough and flexible to rigid according to the conditions of manufacture (as at high, medium, or atmospheric pressure) and the type of catalyst, and that are used chiefly in the form of film (as in food packaging and garment bags), pipe and tubing, and molded products (as squeeze bottles and other containers) and as electrical insulation especially in cables