polystyrene — English Dictionary

Noun

1. A vinylic polymer of styrene, CH₂CHphenyl.

   Examples

   It was 30 times lighter and more flexible than the polystyrene that had previously been used.

   More examples (1)

   Gerri (Gemma Arterton): Well, he might not be begging. He might be waiting for somebody. / Tom: Of course he's begging. He's got a polystyrene cup in front of him.

2. An alkane chain of benzene molecules, RCH₂CHphenylR.

Noun

1. a polymer of styrene; a rigid transparent thermoplastic

   Broader terms

   styrenecinnamenephenylethylenevinylbenzene

   Examples

   expanded polystyrene looks like a rigid white foam and is used as packing or insulation