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

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

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