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

Brushes with nylon bristles should be replaced more often than those that are silicone. —Alyssa Shaffer, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Dec. 2024

Use a nylon brush or sponge to scrub the pan clean, inside and out. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 6 Dec. 2024

There was a spot out beyond my boat dock, no more than a city block offshore, where a goldenrod grub or a corn borer lowered through a hole in the ice into the dark water at the end of a nylon line was as sure to get results as a saucer of cream set in front of a hungry cat. —Wilson H. Stover, Outdoor Life, 5 Dec. 2024

Corrin paired the revealing red carpet look with sheer nylon tights and patent leather slingback pumps adorned with colored stone in resin. —Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 3 Dec. 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