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 outside is made of a water-repellent nylon fabric that helps keep moisture out. Nicol Natale, Peoplemag, 13 Apr. 2024 Synthetic Blends: Synthetic blends include gloves made of materials like nylon and polyester. Rachel Ahrnsen, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Apr. 2024 The nylon and spandex fabric feels nice against the skin and holds up well in the washer without sacrificing color quality. Katrina Cossey, Parents, 10 Apr. 2024 Made from a blend of nylon and spandex, the simple shirt can be worn anywhere from the airport to dinner thanks to its flattering and simple form. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 9 Apr. 2024 Metal strings are smelted into new alloys, while nylon strings are recycled for industrial plastic applications — keeping both out of landfills, where over 1.5 million pounds of strings accumulate every year, according to Playback. Josh Glicksman, Billboard, 2 Apr. 2024 Additionally, there are also a variety of materials such as cotton, suede, velour, fleece and nylon, and there are also travel pillows that can be inflated, deflated and easily packed. Jacqueline Laurean Yates, ABC News, 1 Apr. 2024 The blend of merino wool, bamboo rayon, nylon, and spandex is comfortable and allows for freedom of movement while providing adequate support. Nsisong Bassey, Verywell Health, 15 Mar. 2024 Material: While canvas and nylon or mesh are standards in casual footwear, a certain elegance comes with leather or suede for dressier sneakers. Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 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 19 Apr. 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

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