(n)any of various polymers containing the urethane radical; a wide variety of synthetic forms are made and used as adhesives or plastics or paints or rubber, Syn.polyurethan
n. (Chem.) any polymer containing [ -NH.CO.O- ] linkages; such polymers are much used as the basis of light but rigid foams for packaging ( polyurethane foam) and for hard coatings, as on floors. [ PJC ]
n. [ F. uréthane. See Urea; Ether. ] 1. (Org. Chem.) A white crystalline substance, NH2.CO.OC2H5, produced by the action of ammonia on ethyl carbonate or by heating urea nitrate and ethyl alcohol. It is used as a hypnotic, antipyretic, and antispasmodic. Hence, any ester of carbamic acid. [ Webster 1913 Suppl. ]