Polystyrene - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Polystyrene is a lightweight, synthetic plastic commonly used for packaging, insulation, and disposable items like cups and food containers. It is durable but not easily biodegradable.
Definition:
A lightweight synthetic polymer used in packaging, insulation, and disposable products.
Synonyms:
Styrofoam, plastic foam, expanded polystyrene, synthetic resin
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
natural fiber, biodegradable material
Common Collocations:
polystyrene foam, polystyrene cup, polystyrene packaging, polystyrene insulation
Derivatives:
polystyrenes, polystyrene-based
Usage Tips:
Use "polystyrene" to refer to the material itself; "Styrofoam" is a brand name for a type of polystyrene foam.
Common Phrases:
polystyrene container, expanded polystyrene beads, polystyrene block
Etymology:
Derived from Greek "poly-" (many) and "styrene," a hydrocarbon used in plastics manufacturing.
Examples:
- 1. The coffee cup is made of polystyrene for insulation.
- 2. Polystyrene packaging protects fragile items during shipping.
- 3. Many disposable food containers are crafted from lightweight polystyrene.
- 4. The artist sculpted the model using recycled polystyrene blocks.