petrochemicals

noun

UK /ˌpetrəʊˈkemɪkəlz/

US /ˌpetroʊˈkemɪkəlz/

Chemicals made from oil or gas that are used to make many everyday things.

Plastic toys are made from petrochemicals.

SYNONYMS

oil-based chemicals petroleum products hydrocarbon chemicals refinery chemicals

RELATED WORDS

plastic oil gasoline refinery hydrocarbons

OTHER MEANINGS

2. Substances produced during the processing of petroleum or natural gas.

The plant produces petrochemicals for the plastics industry.

3. Chemical compounds derived from fossil fuels used in manufacturing.

Many fertilizers are petrochemicals.

4. Products of the petrochemical industry, such as solvents and resins.

The factory makes petrochemicals used in paints.