1
: consisting of crystals variously oriented
2
: composed of more than one crystal

Examples of polycrystalline in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Atop this region is the gate stack—a thin layer of silicon oxide insulation topped by a thicker piece of polycrystalline silicon. IEEE Spectrum, 29 Jan. 2025 This is often called polycrystalline silicon, in contrast to the monocrystalline (single crystals) wafers that semiconductors are made on. Willy Shih, Forbes, 13 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

poly- + crystalline

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of polycrystalline was in 1918

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Polycrystalline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polycrystalline. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!