nylon

noun

ny·​lon ˈnī-ˌlän How to pronounce nylon (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Jacquemus has given it a modern ballet spin with a ruched nylon upper, elasticized back and Nike Regrind outsole. Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2025 By merging different material detection methods, the system can identify fiber composition and contaminants—like trace amounts of spandex, nylon and acrylic below 2 percent. Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 24 Sep. 2025 There are the standard individual handles, which are sturdy plastic tubes threaded on nylon ropes for individual arm exercises like curls. PC Magazine, 23 Sep. 2025 Unlike conventional nylon, these fibers are biodegradable under certain conditions, yet remain durable, silky-soft. Dianne Plummer, Forbes.com, 20 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nylon

Word History

Etymology

coined word

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nylon was in 1938

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nylon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nylon. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

nylon

noun
ny·​lon ˈnī-ˌlän How to pronounce nylon (audio)
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 How to pronounce nylon (audio)
: any of numerous strong tough elastic synthetic polyamide materials that are fashioned into fibers, filaments, bristles, or sheets
nylon sutures and prosthetic devices

More from Merriam-Webster on nylon

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!