ˈnīˌlän noun
( -s )
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: coined word
1. : any of numerous synthetic materials consisting of polyamides that are made from a dicarboxylic acid (as adipic acid or sebacic acid) and a diamine (as hexamethylenediamine) or from an omega-amino acid or its lactam (as caprolactam), that can be formed from a melt or solution into fibers, filaments, bristles, or sheets (as by extrusion through spinnerets and drawing or by casting), that are characterized when cold-drawn by toughness, elasticity, and strength, and that are used chiefly in making yarn, fabrics, cordage, resins, and plastics (as for molded products requiring high resistance to wear, heat, or chemicals)
gears made of nylon
nylon rope
nylon cord tires
2.
a. : a quick-drying fiber made from nylon in filament and staple form and often blended with other fibers in fabrics
nylon velvet
b. : yarn or fabric made from nylon
nylon hosiery
nylon tricot
3.
a. : an article made of nylon fibers
b. nylons plural : stockings made of nylon