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Definition of nylon

nylon

/ˈnaɪ.lɑːn/
ny · lon
Plural:nylons
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nylon Lexical Profile

nylon Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A tough, lightweight, elastic synthetic polymer (polyamide) widely manufactured into fibers, fabrics, filaments, and molded plastics.

Example

"The backpack is made of durable, water-resistant nylon that can withstand rough outdoor conditions."

2

Sheer stockings or tights made from nylon fiber (usually used in the plural).

Example

"She bought a fresh pair of sheer nylons to wear with her evening dress."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for nylon

• Rhymes for nylon

• Nearby Words

nyamuragira
nyctanthes
nyiragongo
nylon
nylons
nymph
nymph orchid

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1938 by the DuPont chemical company, combining an arbitrary initial syllable with the suffix '-on' modeled after textile fibers like 'cotton' and 'rayon'. Despite popular urban legend, the word is not an acronym for 'New York' and 'London'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Nylon. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/nylon
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