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

In the event of an emergency, a rocket deploys a nylon parachute from the airframe in seconds, allowing the plane to land safely. — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 15 Oct. 2026

Jalebi Chat — accented with nylon sev (a thin, crispy Indian snack made from chickpea flour) and silver varaq (a thin, edible sheet of silver used in South Asian treats). — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 15 Oct. 2026

Samsara Eco develops enzymatic recycling technology that breaks polyester and nylon 6,6 into monomers, which can then be used to make new polymers. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026

The trousers are made from a nylon, viscose, and elastane blend, offering a hint of stretch for comfort and a smooth pull-on waist. — Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 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