Any of a series of water-soluble polymers with the general formula HO(CH₂CH₂O)_nH. These colorless, odorless compounds range in appearance from viscous liquids for n = 2 to 13 (freezing point range of −15 to 15°C or 5 to 32°F); waxy solids and pastes for n = 22 to 90 (melting point range of 37 to 58°C or 98 to 136°F); and free flowing powder for n = 113 and above (melting point range of 60 to 67°C or 140 to 153°F).