nylon

[ nahy-lon ]

noun

1. any of a class of thermoplastic polyamides capable of extrusion when molten into fibers, sheets, etc., of extreme toughness, strength, and elasticity, synthesized by the interaction of a dicarboxylic acid with a diamine: used especially for yarn, fabrics, and bristles, as for brushes.
2. nylons, stockings made of nylon, especially sheer, full-length ones for women.

nylon

¹

/ ˈnaɪlɒn /

noun

1. a class of synthetic polyamide materials made by copolymerizing dicarboxylic acids with diamines. They can be moulded into a variety of articles, such as combs and machine parts. Nylon monofilaments are used for bristles, etc, and nylon fibres can be spun into yarn
2. 1. yarn or cloth made of nylon, used for clothing, stockings, etc
   2. ( as modifier ) See also nylons

      a nylon dress

NYLON

²

/ ˈnaɪlɒn /

noun

1. informal.
   a high-earning business executive who enjoys a transatlantic lifestyle, living part of the year in New York City and part in London

nylon

/ nī′lŏn′ /

1. Any of various materials made of synthetic polyamides (a type of nitrogen-containing polymer). Nylon is very strong and elastic, and can be formed into fibers, sheets, or bristles. It is used to make fabrics, plastics, and molded products.

Other Words From

• half-nylon adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nylon¹

1938; coined as a generic by the du Pont Chemical Co. as distinct from known words and having no prior meaning or use, but with the suffix -on suggesting other textile fibers such as rayon

Word History and Origins

Origin of nylon¹

C20: originally a trademark

Origin of nylon²

C20: from N ( ew ) Y ( ork ) + Lon ( don )

Example Sentences

Made in Vermont from rugged goat leather, and hand-stitched with thick nylon thread to prevent seam tears, they’re the most durable work gloves I’ve ever tested.

From Outside Online

Made from a soft, lightweight combination of nylon and spandex, it offers UPF 50 protection for sunny days when I want a little extra shielding from the sun between sets.

From Outside Online

Instead of traditional sidearms, the company uses a thin nylon strap to hold them on your face, like a permanent version of sunglasses straps that you can tighten.

From Outside Online

This chemical carried the acid out of the nylon thread as it dried.

From Science News For Students

This chair is just big enough for two people, with dual beverage holders on either arm, and it’s made from tough nylon fabric that’s sure to withstand years of abuse.

From Outside Online

Alice wore a black nylon rain jacket that looked as if it was ill prepared to deal with the coming chill.

From The Daily Beast

They are unapologetically uncool, the men in white nylon jumpsuits and the women in “artsy” drop earrings.

From The Daily Beast

Four of them carried a thick black nylon body bag, two to a side, and loaded it into the middle of the hull.

From The Daily Beast

The mother unties the palm staves from the mattress, then takes the nylon ropes and ties the mattress to the boat.

From The Daily Beast

Other techniques included laser-cut laces, braiding, and high-gloss liquid fabrics made from silk and nylon.

From The Daily Beast

Conservatively dressed—matching coat and trousers of orange nylon tweed—royal blue half-brim bowler—carrying a blue brief case.

From Project Gutenberg

From his pocket he took a long strip of cloth and some of the tough nylon cords from the net.

From Project Gutenberg

I gave her a nylon nightgown and a little nylon coat that went on and she was sitting and touching it.

From Project Gutenberg

He was firmly attached to the ship by a long nylon rope which he hooked to rings set on the outer shell.

From Project Gutenberg

Then he hastily drew off his left gauntlet and the thin nylon glove that was the inner protection of his suit.

From Project Gutenberg