Plasticine

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈplæs.tɪ.siːn/

Definitions

1. A soft, pliable substance used for shaping figures and models, typically non-drying and reusable
2. A malleable compound that can be molded easily into various shapes for artistic or educational purposes
3. A flexible and easily shaped material employed to create temporary sculptures or models in arts and crafts

Etymology: Plasticine began as a brand name, and it is one of the rare modeling-clay names that became the everyday word for the product itself. The trademark was registered in Britain, and the name was built from "plastic," in the sense of something that can be shaped by hand, with the suffix "-ine" added to give it a brand-like ring. The word did not describe a chemical plastic at all; it described a soft, moldable material that stays workable rather than hardening. Because the brand was so successful, the name spread beyond the company and became generic. People began using "plasticine" for any soft modeling clay, much as "hoover" or "biro" came to stand for every vacuum cleaner or ballpoint pen. The company's product remained the reference point, so the trademark's identity gradually dissolved into the common noun.

Synonyms: modeling clay, malleable clay