rayon

noun

ray·​on ˈrā-ˌän How to pronounce rayon (audio)
1
: any of a group of smooth textile fibers made from regenerated cellulose by extrusion through minute holes
2
: a rayon yarn, thread, or fabric

Examples of rayon in a Sentence

The shirt is made of rayon.
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.
Comfort should always come first when building an airport outfit, and that means that certain fabrics—like starchy denim and stuffy rayon—are not an option. Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025 The Sandra also takes advantage of rayon, which is known for its breathability, a soft feel against skin that’s sometimes compared to that of silk, and a luxe appearance. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025 Plus, the polyester, rayon, and spandex fabric blend is breezy enough for warm days, but warm enough for a chilly night. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 Oct. 2025 These three fabrics are overwhelmingly preferred over manmade fibers including polyester (7 percent), spandex (5 percent) and rayon (4 percent). Catherine Salfino, Sourcing Journal, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rayon

Word History

Etymology

irregular from ray entry 2

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rayon was in 1924

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rayon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rayon. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

rayon

noun
ray·​on ˈrā-ˌän How to pronounce rayon (audio)
: a yarn, thread, or fabric made from fibers produced chemically from cellulose

More from Merriam-Webster on rayon

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