poly

The word “poly” means informal short form of polytechnic, a college focused on technical and vocational subjects. In plain terms, a casual shortening of words starting with "poly-", most often "polytechnic" or "polyamorous.".

“Poly” is pronounced PO-lee (/ˈpɒli/ in IPA).

Here is “poly” used in a sentence: “She studied engineering at the local poly before it became a university.”

“Poly” is a noun.

“Poly” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Poly” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: informal short form of polytechnic, a college focused on technical and vocational subjects.

It can mean either, depending on context: poly is an informal short form of polytechnic, a college focused on technical and vocational subjects, and also an informal short form of polyamorous or polyamory, describing relationships with more than one partner. Readers must rely on surrounding context to know which sense is meant.

Yes, in both of its common senses poly functions as an informal, shortened alternative to a longer word, so it is generally avoided in formal writing in favor of "polytechnic" or "polyamorous."

Poly is simply the clipped, informal form of polyamory or polyamorous, so the two refer to the same concept of relationships involving more than one partner. "Poly" is used more casually in speech and online, while "polyamory" is the fuller term used in more formal or explanatory contexts.