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Definition of "resin" []

  • Any of numerous clear to translucent yellow or brown, solid or semisolid, viscous substances of plant origin, such as copal, rosin, and amber, used principally in lacquers, varnishes, inks, adhesives, synthetic plastics, and pharmaceuticals. (noun)
  • Any of numerous physically similar polymerized synthetics or chemically modified natural resins including thermoplastic materials such as polyvinyl, polystyrene, and polyethylene and thermosetting materials such as polyesters, epoxies, and silicones that are used with fillers, stabilizers, pigments, and other components to form plastics. (noun)
  • To treat or rub with resin. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "resin" in a sentence
  • "A gentleman in a nearby seat informs me that their resin is the source of the incense whose odor clings to this old world."
  • "Insects and other small animals may be trapped in resin flowing down tree bark, or as it covers their dead bodies on the forest floor."
  • "This oily resin is found in the leaves, stems, roots and berries of all of these plants."