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 The brand initially launched a small drop in 2019 made from ECONYL, a nylon fabric made out of recycled trash. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 18 Mar. 2024 The nylon chassis is durable and collision-resistant. Alesandra Dubin, Parents, 18 Mar. 2024 The hat’s nylon material is treated with a UPF 50+ and has an insect-resistant coating to keep things comfortable. William Goodman, Robb Report, 14 Mar. 2024 With a front racket compartment, water bottle pocket and striped straps, this nylon tote will be a hit with amateurs and pros alike. Paula Lee, Glamour, 14 Mar. 2024 The exterior of the bag is made from a water-repellent nylon material that will keep your belongings protected from inclement spring weather, while a hidden pocket at the back of the pouch is the perfect size and space to store your passport or other ID without worrying about theft. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 13 Mar. 2024 Gwyneth Paltrow wore a daring sheer top, leather hot pants with nylon tights, statement bauble earrings and a sleek blazer to Vanity Fair and Saint Laurent's Oppenheimer film toast in L.A. 03 Julia Roberts When fashion speaks volumes! Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 12 Mar. 2024 The 10-piece set is a fantastic starter option, and includes 7- and 9-inch frying pans, a 2-quart saucepan with lid, a 2.5-quart sauté pan with lid, a 5-quart stock pot with lid, and two black nylon cooking utensils. Nor'adila Hepburn, Southern Living, 1 Mar. 2024 Pros: Shades for all skin tones; includes four pairs; great for a bigger lift Cons: Not reusable Sizes: 1–4 Colors: 4 Materials: Acrylic, hemp, nylon What reviewers say: 40DD girl here! Andrea Navarro, Glamour, 7 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'nylon.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near nylon

Cite this Entry

“Nylon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nylon. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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!