olefin

noun

ole·​fin ˈō-lə-fən 

1

: alkene

2

: a synthetic fiber (such as polypropylene) derived from an alkene

olefinic

ˌō-lə-ˈfi-nik 

adjective

Examples of olefin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Their process involved taking molecules called silyl (pseudo) halides and treating them with a source of fluoride, removing elements from the former leave an anti-Bredt olefin behind. —Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2024

Additionally, the cushions are covered in olefin fabric—a sturdy performance fabric that is resistant to fading, stains, and mildew. —Nor'adila Hepburn, Southern Living, 16 Feb. 2024

Thanks to its low production costs, olefin is a budget-friendly type of carpet. —Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Dec. 2023

It’s constructed from nylon and olefin with a latex backing and features a grippy back that keeps it in place without the additional need for a rug pad or rug tape. —Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 7 Nov. 2023

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from French (gaz) oléfiant ethylene, from Latin oleum

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

olefin

noun

ole·​fin ˈō-lə-fən 

: a chemical compound made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms that contains at least one double bond

especially : any of various long-chain synthetic polymers (as of ethylene) used especially as textile fibers

Medical Definition

olefin

noun

ole·​fin ˈō-lə-fən 

: alkene

olefinic

ˌō-lə-ˈfin-ik 

adjective