noun
Uncommon
poly
PO-lee
Poly (noun) means informal short form of polytechnic, a college focused on technical and vocational subjects. Example: “She studied engineering at the local poly before it became a university.”
noun
1
Informal short form of polytechnic, a college focused on technical and vocational subjects.
"She studied engineering at the local poly before it became a university."
2
Informal short form of polyamorous or polyamory, describing relationships with more than one partner.
"He identifies as poly and has two long-term partners."
How to use poly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA casual shortening of words starting with "poly-", most often "polytechnic" or "polyamorous."
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Word forms
- Plural
- polys
- Third person singular
- polys
- Past tense
- polyed
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She studied engineering at the local _____ before it became a university.
Etymology
A shortening of various words.
Rhymes for poly
See all rhymes for poly →Frequently asked questions
What does “poly” mean?
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.".
How do you pronounce “poly”?
“Poly” is pronounced PO-lee (/ˈpɒli/ in IPA).
How do you use “poly” in a sentence?
Here is “poly” used in a sentence: “She studied engineering at the local poly before it became a university.”
What part of speech is “poly”?
“Poly” is a noun.
Is “poly” a common word?
“Poly” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “poly” have?
“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.
Does "poly" mean polytechnic or polyamorous?
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.
Is "poly" always informal?
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."
What is the difference between "poly" and "polyamory"?
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.
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