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Plexiglass Meaning: Definition and Examples

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plexiglass

plex-i-glass

🇺🇸 /ˈpɫɛksiˌɡɫæs/ · 🇬🇧 /plˈɛksɪɡlˌɑːs/

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

material, glass

Plexiglass is a transparent acrylic plastic material that is often used as a lightweight or shatter-resistant alternative to glass. It is known for its clarity and durability, making it suitable for a variety of applications including windows, skylights, and displays.

Synonyms

PMMA, acrylic, clear plastic.

Examples of usage

  • The artist used plexiglass to create a modern sculpture.
  • We installed plexiglass sheets for safety in the children's play area.
  • The display case is made of plexiglass to showcase the artifacts.

Quick facts about “plexiglass”

Plexiglass is a 3-syllable noun (plex-i-glass). It is pronounced /ˈpɫɛksiˌɡɫæs/ in American English and /plˈɛksɪɡlˌɑːs/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning and 3 synonyms. It ranks #32,838 among the most common English words.

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“plexiglass” in applications

  • Plexiglass is often used in places where safety is important, such as in banks or museums for protective barriers.
  • It can be found in airplane windows and aquariums, showing its versatility in both aviation and marine environments.

“plexiglass” in science

  • This material can filter UV light, making it suitable for use in greenhouses and outdoor displays.
  • Plexiglass is a polymer, meaning it's made of long chains of molecules that give it strength and durability.

“plexiglass” in art and design

  • Artists and designers use plexiglass for sculptures and installations due to its transparency and ability to reflect light creatively.
  • Due to its ease of cut and shape, it is a favorite among DIY enthusiasts for crafting custom items.

“plexiglass” in pop culture

  • Plexiglass is often used in feature films for safety shields or futuristic displays, contributing to a modern aesthetic.
  • This material has appeared in various TV shows and movies, illustrating futuristic environments like spaceships and advanced labs.

Origin of 'plexiglass'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'plexiglass' comes from 'Plexiglas', a brand name created by the German chemical company Röhm and Haas in the 1930s.
  • The word 'plexus' suggests interwoven layers, hinting at the material's strong and rigid structure.

The term 'plexiglass' originated in the early 20th century from 'Plexiglas,' a trademarked name by the German company Röhm, which developed polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). This synthetic polymer was first created in the 1920s and quickly gained popularity due to its glass-like properties, including transparency and resistance to breakage. The name 'plexiglass' has since become a generic term for various brands and types of acrylic sheets. The material was first used during WWII for aircraft canopies because of its lightweight and high optical clarity. Post-war, its applications expanded into furniture, home décor, and safety products, making plexiglass a widely recognized and utilized material in industry and daily life.

Rhymes

Plexiglass rhymes with plexiglas.

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Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,838 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.