nailon
/ˈnailon/masculine
The English word nylon is translated into Spanish as nailon, nilón or nylon.
Meaning: substance (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| nailon | /ˈnailon/ | masculine |
| nylon | /ˈnailon/ | masculine |
| nilón | /niˈlon/ | masculine |
All forms of this word refer to the synthetic substance known as nylon.
Which one should you use?
The spelling varies by region: nailon is the standard spelling in Spain, while nilón is commonly used in many parts of Latin America. The spelling nylon is also used.
Is it said differently in some regions?
nailon is the standard form used in Spain, and nilón is commonly used in many parts of Latin America.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun is masculine and is used with masculine articles, such as el nailon.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈnailon/
Did you know?
- While nailon refers to the fabric, Spanish speakers often use the term medias de nailon specifically to refer to sheer stockings, which became a powerful cultural symbol of modernity and luxury in mid-century Spain.
- In technical textile manuals in Spanish, you may see poliamida used instead of nailon, as it describes the chemical family of the polymer rather than the brand name.
- Because the word is a direct loan from English, a Spanish speaker might actually use the English pronunciation if they are speaking in a highly technical or scientific context.
Examples in context
- En mi mochila, llevo una chaqueta hecha de nailon resistente al agua.In my backpack, I carry a water-resistant jacket made of nylon.
- ¡Ten cuidado con esas medias de poliamida que se enganchan fácilmente!Be careful with those polyamide stockings that snag easily!
- El nailon es muy resistente.Nylon is very resistant.
- Necesito una cuerda de nailon.I need a nylon rope.
- Esa red es de nailon.That net is made of nylon.
Example conversation
Lucía and Alejandro are preparing for a camping trip.
- Lucía¿Tienes la cuerda de nailon?Do you have the nylon rope?
- AlejandroSí, la tengo en la mochila.Yes, I have it in the backpack.
- LucíaPerfecto, el nailon nos servirá mucho.Perfect, the nylon will be very useful for us.
- AlejandroEs muy fuerte para la tienda.It is very strong for the tent.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nylon” translations and entries nailon, nylon, nilón, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
