Definitions:

What's in a name?  Well for plastics, the names are difficult to pronounce and harder to comprehend...in some cases.  And all seem bad for you and your family.  So why do we still use so much of it?  See the Guide to Buying Plastics for more info.

Phthalates- are esters or isomers mainly used to increase the flexibility, transparency, durability and longevity of plastics. Phthalates are being phased out of many products in the United States and European Union over health concerns.
Dioixns- Polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs), are a group of polyhalogenated compounds which are significant because they act as environmental pollutants. Dioxins occur as by-products in the manufacture of organochlorides (organic compound containing at least one covalently bonded chlorine atom); in the incineration of chlorine-containing substances such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride); in the bleaching of paper; and from natural sources such as volcanoes and forest fires. They have been shown to bioaccumulate in humans and wildlife due to their lipophilic properties, and are known teratogens, mutagens, and suspected human carcinogens. They are organic compounds, but not good for you.
BPA-Bisphenol A- a difunctional building block of several important plastics and plastic additives; it is an important molecule in the production of polycarbonate. Suspected of being hazardous to humans since the 1930’s but only recently several governments questiong its safety.  See Ban Poisonous Additives.
PET or PETE-polyethylene terephthalate –water bottles
HDPE-high density polyethylene-milk jugs, shampoo bottles
V or PVC- polyvinyl chloride-Meat wrap, plumbing pipe
LDPE- low density polyethylene – baggies and cling wrap
PP- polypropylene –yogurt cups
PS- polystyrene –take out containers and coffee cups
PC-polycarbonate, or polylactide
PLA-plastics made from renewable resources as well as newer plastics labeled "BPA-Free"


Thanks for the info:

• Green Guide
• Wikipedia
• Random House Dictionary