1. a hypothetical form of water with unusual properties, proposed in the 1960s but later discredited; water that has been polymerized or exists in a polymeric state.
Usage: scientific/historical; largely discredited in modern chemistry; also called 'anomalous water'

Examples

• Scientists in the 1960s were excited about the discovery of polywater, which seemed to have properties unlike ordinary water.
• Polywater was thought to be denser and have a higher boiling point than regular water.
• The polywater hypothesis generated significant research interest before being proven incorrect.
• Modern chemists have shown that polywater does not exist as a distinct substance.
• The polywater controversy is now considered a cautionary tale in scientific research.