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

Uniqlo designs the beanie with a moisture-wicking nylon blend that converts the body’s moisture into heat while preventing it from escaping. —Alison Syrett Cleary, InStyle, 9 Jan. 2026

After soaking for at least 15 minutes, use an abrasive sponge or nylon bristle brush to scrub the burner grates. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 8 Jan. 2026

Equally damning are the quantities of fossil fuels used to produce synthetic garments made from polyester, nylon or acrylic. —Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 7 Jan. 2026

Materials used included recycled nylon, Responsible Down Standard fill and mycelium vegan leather. —Sarah Jones, Footwear News, 7 Jan. 2026

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