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 from a silky smooth blend of viscose, nylon, and polyester, the sweater features a mockneck, batwing sleeves and a flowy, tunic-style fit that’s both roomy and flattering. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 16 Sep. 2025

Magna took home a runner-up award here for using hemp nylon in place of traditional nylon in car exteriors. —Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 16 Sep. 2025

Synthetic polymers such as nylon are made with fossil fuels and shed microfibers with every wash. —The Editors, Scientific American, 16 Sep. 2025

Fortunately, the nylon material provided just enough warmth, keeping me comfortable without feeling too cold or too hot. —Destinee Scott, Travel + Leisure, 15 Sep. 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