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

Made of 50% wool and 50% nylon, the Miah is built to last—so don’t let the low price tag keep you from putting it in high-traffic zones like entryways and halls. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 June 2025

It’s made of a nylon and spandex blend that’s soft, stretchy, and breathable. —Mia Huelsbeck, People.com, 29 June 2025

And when it’s had enough of swimming, it can be hooked out using the utility nylon rope loop on the speaker’s side. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025

Its boar bristles and nylon pins are infused with keratin for an extra reparative boost with every stroke, gently smoothing without irritation. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 28 June 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