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

Tumi's nylon crossbody is perfect for any travel day, while The Sak’s leather sling is a sleek option for just $70. — Kayla Becker, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 July 2026

Luckily, these are made from a nylon-spandex blend with a little more give to them. — Alyssa Grabinski, PEOPLE, 17 July 2026

Most swimsuits are made of nylon, polyester, a ribbed material, or neoprene (a more intense, sporty material), and blended with spandex, Lycra, or elastane for stretch. — Alexandra Malmed, InStyle, 16 July 2026

Aldrin kept the nylon tab portion of the cloth as a keepsake. — Popular Science Team, Popular Science, 16 July 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