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

It’s made of a BPA-free non-stick nylon material that is easy to clean. —Amber Guetebier, Southern Living, 8 Feb. 2025

Medium heat works well for synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Feb. 2025

One potential source: When the fibers of synthetic clothing (such as polyester, elastane, nylon, or satin) come off the item with regular washing, drying, and wearing, and end up circulating in the air with other dust particles. —Carolyn L. Todd, SELF, 5 Feb. 2025

The latest iteration features the same robust build and chuck-about-ability but has been consciously upgraded with phthalate-free, recycled PVC and recycled nylon that’s treated with a non-PFC water-repellent (DWR) finish. —Parker Hall, WIRED, 2 Feb. 2025

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