ClimateJuly 10, 2026

polymers

/ˈpɒlɪmərz/

Definition

Large, durable chemical substances made up of repeating molecular units, often used in the manufacturing of plastics, coatings, and structural materials.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'polys' (meaning 'many') and 'meros' (meaning 'part'). The term entered scientific English in the 19th century to describe complex structures composed of multiple identical structural units.

In the news

The article mentions polymers as materials that can be synthesized from captured carbon dioxide, highlighting their use in everyday products like eyeglasses, electronics, and even footwear. This illustrates how carbon capture helps create functional goods while reducing reliance on traditional raw materials.

Beyond Storage: How Captured Carbon Can Be Utilized

Read the full article ↗

Bipartisan Policy Center

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.