polyester

[pol-ee-es-ter, pol-ee-es-ter]

noun

1. Chemistry.,  a polymer in which the monomer units are linked together by the group –COO–, usually formed by polymerizing a polyhydric alcohol with a polybasic acid: used chiefly in the manufacture of resins, plastics, and textile fibers.

2. Also called poly. a fabric made from such textile fibers.

polyester

/ ˌpɒlɪˈɛstə /

noun

1. any of a large class of synthetic materials that are polymers containing recurring -COO- groups: used as plastics, textile fibres, and adhesives

polyester

1. Any of various mostly synthetic polymers that are light, strong resins resistant to weather and corrosion. Polyesters are long chains of esters and are used to make fibers and plastics. They are thermosetting. Some polyesters, such as suberin, occur naturally.

Other Word Forms

• polyesterification noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of polyester¹

First recorded in 1925–30; poly- + ester

Example Sentences

And there were polyester fibers on two of the victims matching material found in Buono’s shop.

From Los Angeles Times

In addition to eliminating certified synthetic colors, Sam’s Club plans to remove aspartame, high fructose corn syrup, sucrose polyester and more additives as part of its “Made Without” initiative.

From Salon

Most of these garments are made from synthetic fibers like polyester, which are essentially plastic.

From Salon

The textile conservator believed the stitching was polyester so unaffected by the bleaching.

From BBC

“I even presented to Scott and Bryan an image of Monty Hall,” the longtime host of the ’60s game show wearing a plaid sport coat and polyester slacks.

From Los Angeles Times