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

On the back is water-resistant nylon that wipes clean and prevents moisture from getting through. —Theresa Holland, Peoplemag, 3 June 2024

While most modern pants are now made of a blend of synthetic materials, including polyester and nylon for structure and elastane for stretch, there are also plenty that use cotton for its breathability and comfort. —Red Fabbri, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 2024

Priced from $30 to $60, the Roger Federer by JW Anderson for Uniqlo collab is inspired by ’70s and ’80s tennis silhouettes and features lightweight parkas, v-neck and polo shirts, shorts and nylon jogger pants. —Danielle Directo-Meston, The Hollywood Reporter, 16 May 2024

Underneath each Harford Community College men’s lacrosse player’s jersey and pads is a white, nylon T-shirt. —Sam Cohn, Baltimore Sun, 13 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

coined word

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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