petrochemical

noun

pet·​ro·​chem·​i·​cal ˌpe-trō-ˈke-mi-kəl How to pronounce petrochemical (audio)
: a chemical isolated or derived from petroleum or natural gas
petrochemistry noun

Examples of petrochemical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The International Energy Agency projects that petrochemicals will account for more than two thirds of global oil demand growth by 2026. Errol Schweizer, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 China's refining capacity growth is slowing as fuel demand falls while refiners switch to petrochemicals, the researcher said. Chen Aizhu, Reuters, 10 Sep. 2024 The suit is the latest in a series of high-profile legal actions California officials have taken against petrochemical corporations and plastic manufacturers. Susanne Rust, Los Angeles Times, 31 Oct. 2024 The decision to dismiss Ten Hag will be regarded as one of the most significant moves since British petrochemicals billionaire and Ineos Chief Executive Jim Ratcliffe completed a deal to buy a minority stake in Manchester United. Sam Meredith, CNBC, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for petrochemical 

Word History

Etymology

petro- + chemical entry 2

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of petrochemical was in 1942

Dictionary Entries Near petrochemical

Cite this Entry

“Petrochemical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/petrochemical. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

petrochemical

noun
pet·​ro·​chem·​i·​cal ˌpe-trō-ˈkem-i-kəl How to pronounce petrochemical (audio)
: a chemical obtained from petroleum or natural gas

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