VocabDictionary

plastic

/หˆplรฆstษชk/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A synthetic or semi-synthetic organic compound that is malleable and can be molded into solid objects of diverse shapes.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œThe ocean is currently facing a crisis due to the accumulation of single-use plastic.โ€
  • โ€œMost modern electronics are encased in durable plastic.โ€
2.adjective

Easily shaped or molded; pliable; or, in a figurative sense, lacking authenticity or sincerity.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œClay is a plastic material that allows artists to create intricate sculptures.โ€
  • โ€œHe grew tired of the plastic smiles and superficial conversations at the corporate gala.โ€
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for โ€œplasticโ€.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'plastikos' (fit for molding), which comes from 'plassein' (to mold or form). It entered English via the Latin 'plasticus' in the 17th century, originally referring to the ability to be shaped or molded, before being applied to synthetic polymers in the early 20th century.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'plaster'โ€”both plaster and plastic start as soft, moldable materials that harden into a final shape.

Frequently Asked Questions About โ€œplasticโ€

1. What is the meaning of โ€œplasticโ€ in English?

In English, plastic (noun) is defined as: โ€œA synthetic or semi-synthetic organic compound that is malleable and can be molded into solid objects of diverse shapes.โ€.

2. How do you use โ€œplasticโ€ in a sentence?

โ€œThe ocean is currently facing a crisis due to the accumulation of single-use plastic.โ€

3. What are English synonyms of โ€œplasticโ€?

Common synonyms include:synthetic,pliable,malleable,artificial

4. What is the etymology and word origin of โ€œplasticโ€?

Derived from the Greek 'plastikos' (fit for molding), which comes from 'plassein' (to mold or form). It entered English via the Latin 'plasticus' in the 17th century, originally referring to the ability to be shaped or molded, before being applied to synthetic polymers in the early 20th century.