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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Niutech explained the technology can process polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and nylon, either separately or in mixed streams. — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 30 Aug. 2026 The brand said Sperro SV’s nylon face fabric and backer are separately designed for recyclability and are made in partnership with Aquafil, the maker of Econyl regenerated nylon. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 28 Aug. 2026 Materials To achieve flexibility and durability, trunk cargo nets are made of polyester, nylon, or cotton blends. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 27 Aug. 2026 It is made of durable leather, has tough nylon lining and is easy to install. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nylon

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

Rhymes for nylon

See All Rhymes for nylon

Browse Nearby Words

Nyíregyháza
nylon
nyloned
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nylon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nylon. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Copy Citation

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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about nylon

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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