nylon

American  

[nahy-lon] / ˈnaɪ lɒn /

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.

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nylon ¹ British  

/ 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

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NYLON ² British  

/ 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

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nylon Scientific  

/ 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.

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Other Word Forms

• half-nylon adjective

Etymology

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

Example Sentences

Much of the stuff of modern life, from nylon yarn to PVC pipes to acrylic paint, ultimately comes from fossil fuels.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

"The other tracksuit was really tight nylon," explained O'Neill of what he wore against Falkirk.

From BBC • Nov. 2, 2025

The team has now proved that its model is at its most advanced stage yet by actually making such objects with 3D printed nylon.

From Science Daily • Oct. 18, 2025

The Environment for Development, a global research network, estimates that around a third are unusable items that end up in landfills -- mostly made from plastic-based materials like nylon and polyester that does not biodegrade.

From Barron's • Oct. 13, 2025

When he got cold, one of his helpers draped a nylon jacket over his shoulders.

From "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom