polyurethane

noun

poly·​ure·​thane ˌpä-lē-ˈyu̇r-ə-ˌthān 

: any of various polymers that contain NHCOO linkages and are used especially in flexible and rigid foams, elastomers, and resins (as for coatings)

Examples of polyurethane in a Sentence

The floor will need two coats of polyurethane.

Recent Examples on the Web

Very few ski manufacturers put polyurethane (i.e. plastic) in skis right now, typically opting for combinations of wood, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and aluminum alloys. —Jake Stern, Outside Online, 11 Apr. 2025

Composite Structures The researchers tested this BLS design by 3D printing a sample made from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU 95A). —New Atlas, 8 Mar. 2025

Instead of leather, the upper is mesh reinforced with synthetic (thermoplastic polyurethane) overlays. —Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 27 Feb. 2025

Large Cracks on Foundation Walls Small hairline cracks in the foundation walls are relatively common and can typically be fixed by the average DIYer using epoxy or polyurethane to seal the cracks. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for polyurethane

• diazomethane
• dichloroethane
• dichloromethane
• trichloroethane
• abstain
• airplane
• alkane
• arcane
• arraign
• attain
• backplane
• betaine