polymer
UK[ˈpɒlɪmə]US[ˈpɑːlɪmər]
n
A substance that has a molecular structure consisting chiefly or entirely of a large number of similar units bonded together, e.g., many synthetic organic materials used as plastics and resins.
Morpheme Breakdown
poly
mer
poly
many
mer
part
Etymology
The word 'polymer' is a modern scientific formation, coined in the 19th century from two ancient Greek elements. The prefix 'poly-' derives from the Greek polys, meaning "many" or "much", a concept with deep Proto-Indo-European roots in polh₁ús (much). The root '-mer' originates from Greek meros, meaning "part" or "share", related to the PIE root (s)mer- meaning "to get a share". The term was constructed to logically describe the essential characteristic of these substances: they are composed of many repeating structural parts or units (monomers) linked together. This literal "many-parts" construction elegantly captures the fundamental macromolecular architecture that defines plastics, fibers, and biological compounds like DNA.
Analysis
Structure: poly (many) + mer (part)
- poly: From Greek poly-, meaning "much, many". A combining form acting as a prefix.
- mer: From Greek meros, meaning "part, share". A combining form acting as a root.
Examples
Polyethylene is a common polymer used in plastic bags and bottles.
Natural rubber is a polymer of the organic compound isoprene.
The scientist developed a new biodegradable polymer for medical implants.