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. 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

²

/ 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

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

Origin of nylon²

C20: originally a trademark

Example Sentences

Tufts of black lambswool and recycled nylon sprout up in contrast to the conventional ribbed beanie brim, an homage to the overactive crown chakra that is every Sagittarian’s secret weapon and downfall.

From Los Angeles Times

“What I’ve experienced taking adult ballet is that no one is watching,” said Sommerville, who dressed in a black leotard, black nylon warm-up shorts, white tights and white Birkenstocks the day we spoke.

From Los Angeles Times

This new Oasis scene seems to feature fewer blokes with sideburns, baggy nylon football shirts and those loud burps that follow swiftly-downed cans of Carling.

From BBC

They were wrapped in nylon bags, which were tied with rope.

From BBC

"The bodies, wrapped in bags and secured by nylon ropes, had visible marks of torture and mutilation," the watchdog said, noting that the dump site was less than 100 metres from a local police station.

From BBC