nylon

noun

ny·​lon ˈnī-ˌlän 

1

: any of numerous strong tough elastic synthetic polyamide materials that are fashioned into fibers, filaments, bristles, or sheets and used especially in textiles and plastics

2

nylons plural : stockings made of nylon

Examples of nylon in a Sentence

The rope is made of nylon.

Recent Examples on the Web

Jackets, ties, nylons and shoulder pads made a comeback, all in strict adherence to a dress code that hadn't been revised in decades. —Darlin Tillery, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Sep. 2025

Around World War II the brand evolved into adding nylon and synthetics to its string lineup, a big change. —Tim Newcomb, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025

No paper, nylon mesh, or stainless-steel filters are required. —Mark Marino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 Aug. 2025

Best-selling Patagonia pants are discounted by 30 percent, while the Mountain Hardwear Rockrydge Pants can be used for climbing and are made with a durable cotton, nylon, and elastane blend. —Bria McNeal, Travel + Leisure, 28 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

coined word

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for nylon

• anton
• argon
• axon
• baronne
• baryon
• baton
• boron
• buisson
• bygone
• capon
• cardon
• chiffon

Kids Definition

nylon

noun

ny·​lon ˈnī-ˌlän 

1

: any of numerous strong tough elastic synthetic materials used especially in textiles and plastics

2

plural : stockings made of nylon

nylon adjective

Etymology

coined from meaningless word elements

Medical Definition

nylon

noun

ny·​lon ˈnī-ˌlän 

: any of numerous strong tough elastic synthetic polyamide materials that are fashioned into fibers, filaments, bristles, or sheets

nylon sutures and prosthetic devices