olefin

noun ole·fin \ˈō-lə-fən\

Definition of OLEFIN

: alkene

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

— ole·fin·ic \ˌō-lə-ˈfi-nik\ adjective

See olefin defined for kids

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

First Known Use: 1860

Medical Dictionary

noun ole·fin \ˈō-lə-fən\

—ole·fin·ic \ˌō-lə-ˈfin-ik\ adjective

Next Word in the Dictionary: oleic acidPrevious Word in the Dictionary: olefiant gasAll Words Near: olefin

What made you want to look up olefin? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears