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

In the 1980s, Jobs visited Sony and admired the company uniforms that Miyake had designed—a taupe nylon jacket with removable sleeves that could convert into a vest. —Dave Smith, Fortune, 11 Nov. 2025

The iPhone Pocket is made of stretchy nylon and polyester, with pleats that mirror Issey Miyake's renowned Pleats Please design. —Greta Cross, USA Today, 11 Nov. 2025

This affordable option is stacked with surprising security, including an anti-theft back-zip entry, water-resistant nylon, and sturdy zippers that resist tampering. —Claire Gallam, Travel + Leisure, 10 Nov. 2025

Made from a silky smooth blend of viscose, nylon, and polyester, the sweater features a mock-neck, batwing sleeves and a flowy, tunic-style fit that’s both roomy and flattering. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 10 Nov. 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