What does plexiglass mean?
Plexiglass is a versatile and widely used type of clear plastic sheeting made from acrylic glass. Its transparency, durability, and resistance to shattering make it an ideal material for various applications, including art, design, construction, and display cases. Plexiglass is often used as a substitute for glass, particularly in situations where safety is a concern. It can be cut, shaped, and molded to suit different needs, making it a popular choice among artists, designers, and DIY enthusiasts. With its unique properties and uses, plexiglass has become a well-known term in many industries.
nounPlexiglass is a type of clear, transparent plastic sheeting made from acrylic glass. It is often used as a substitute for glass in applications where shattering is a concern.
- A type of clear plastic sheeting
- A specific brand or product name for this type of plastic
"The artist used plexiglass to create a protective cover for her painting."
"The museum used plexiglass to display fragile artifacts."
"The DIY project required cutting a sheet of plexiglass to size."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of plexiglass
The term 'plexiglass' is a trademarked name that originated from the company Röhm and Haas, which first produced this type of acrylic glass in the 1930s. The name is derived from the German word 'Plexiglas,' which was later adopted into English as 'plexiglass.' The material itself is a type of poly(methyl methacrylate), a synthetic polymer that is commonly used in various applications.
Usage notes
Plexiglass is often used in informal contexts, but it is also a technical term in industries such as art, design, and construction. It is commonly used to describe a specific type of acrylic glass product.