polymer
UK: ˈpɒlɪmə | US: ˈpɑːlɪmər
n. A substance composed of large molecules formed by repeating structural units (monomers) linked together.
n. (Chemistry) Any compound with a high molecular weight, naturally occurring or synthetic.
polymer = poly<many> + mer<part>
- poly: From Greek polys (many), indicating multiplicity or repetition.
- mer: From Greek meros (part), referring to a unit or segment of a larger structure.
Etymology Origin:
The term polymer was coined in 1833 by Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius by combining Greek poly- (many) and -mer (part). It reflects the core concept of polymers as chains of repeating molecular units. The word’s structure logically mirrors its scientific meaning—many parts linked together.
Plastic is a synthetic polymer widely used in manufacturing.
Natural polymers like cellulose are essential to plant structure.
The scientist studied the polymer’s properties under high heat.
DNA is a complex polymer composed of nucleotide monomers.
Recycling programs often focus on reducing polymer waste.