polyethylene glycol

noun

: any of a series of polymers H(OCH₂CH₂)_nOH where n is greater than three that vary from viscous liquids to waxy solids and are used especially as lubricants and in medical and biotechnological applications

—abbreviation PEG

Examples of polyethylene glycol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Unlisted ingredients More than half the inks my research team analyzed contained unlisted polyethylene glycol, also known as PEG. —John Swierk, CBS News, 23 Mar. 2024

Notably, among these additives is polyethylene glycol, a medication used for managing constipation, according to the National Institute of Health. —Jordan Greene, Peoplemag, 29 Feb. 2024

The team simulated drought conditions by exposing plants to polyethylene glycol—a polymer often used in experiments to induce water deficit—or by withholding water, then sent a current through the crops. —IEEE Spectrum, 11 Dec. 2023

The laxative circulating on TikTok is primarily one that contains polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG). —Lori Youmshajekian, Scientific American, 1 Nov. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

polyethylene glycol

noun

: any of a series of polymers H(OCH₂CH₂)_nOH where n is greater than three that vary from viscous liquids to white solids and are used in medicine especially as laxatives and as bases for pharmaceutical ointments and cosmetic creams

—abbreviation PEG

Note: The covalent attachment of polyethylene glycol chains to biomolecules (see pegylation) is used especially to improve the bioavailability, solubility, and stability of therapeutic agents and to reduce their immunogenicity.