polyurethane
polyurethane Lexical Profile
polyurethane Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A synthetic resin or plastic polymer in which the chain units are linked by urethane groups, widely used in flexible and rigid foams, durable protective coatings, adhesives, and synthetic fibers.
"The mattress is made from a high-density polyurethane foam that provides firm spinal support."
A clear or tinted protective varnish or finish containing this synthetic resin, applied especially to wood surfaces to guard against moisture and scratches.
"She applied three coats of water-based polyurethane to seal the newly sanded oak floorboards."
• verb
To coat, treat, or seal a surface (especially wood) with a protective polyurethane finish.
"The carpenter sanded and polyurethaned the dining table so it would withstand daily family use."
• Rhymes for polyurethane
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the 1930s by German chemist Otto Bayer, combining the prefix 'poly-' (from Ancient Greek 'polys', meaning 'many') with 'urethane' (a blend of 'urea' and 'ethane').