nylon
[ nahy-lon ]
/ ˈnaɪ lɒn /
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noun
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.
nylons, stockings made of nylon, especially sheer, full-length ones for women.
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Origin of nylon
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
OTHER WORDS FROM nylon
half-nylon, adjectiveWords nearby nylon
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
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British Dictionary definitions for nylon (1 of 2)
nylon
/ (ˈnaɪlɒn) /
noun
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
- yarn or cloth made of nylon, used for clothing, stockings, etc
- (as modifier)a nylon dress See also nylons
Word Origin for nylon
C20: originally a trademark
British Dictionary definitions for nylon (2 of 2)
NYLON
/ (ˈnaɪlɒn) /
noun
informal a high-earning business executive who enjoys a transatlantic lifestyle, living part of the year in New York City and part in London
Word Origin for NYLON
C20: from N (ew) Y (ork) + Lon (don)
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Scientific definitions for nylon
nylon
[ nī′lŏn′ ]
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.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
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