polythene

plural polythenes

1. countableuncountablechemistrySynonym of polyethylene.

   Well, you should see Polythene Pam, / She's so good looking but she looks like a man. / Well, you should see her in drag, / Dressed in her polythene bag. / Yes, you should see Polythene Pam.

   1969, “Polythene Pam”, in John Lennon (lyrics), Abbey Road, performed by The Beatles

   1 more example

   All that was needed [to make a hula hoop] was a bag of high-density polythene dust, a handful of two-inch wooden plugs, half a pound of wire staples, and the help of a man with an extrusion machine, which simply meant anyone who could make a length of plastic hose.

   1971, Gwen White, Antique Toys And Their Background, page 129

   Synonyms: polyethylene