noun

Kevlar

KEHV-lah

Kevlar (noun) means a very strong, lightweight synthetic fiber used to reinforce protective gear, tyres, and cables. Example: “The vest was lined with Kevlar to stop small-caliber rounds.”

noun

A very strong, lightweight synthetic fiber used to reinforce protective gear, tyres, and cables.

"The vest was lined with Kevlar to stop small-caliber rounds."

"Kevlar gloves protect workers from cuts on the factory floor."

How to use Kevlar

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA super-tough fiber best known for bulletproof vests, though also used in tyres, ropes, and protective clothing.

Common pairings

Kevlar vest Kevlar helmet Kevlar-reinforced

Word forms

kevlars plural

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The vest was lined with _____ to stop small-caliber rounds.

Etymology

From "Kevlar", a trademarked brand name for the aramid fiber developed by DuPont in the 1960s.

· First attested 1960

Class of 1960 Kevlar joined the language around 1960.

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Kevlar” mean?

The word “Kevlar” means a very strong, lightweight synthetic fiber used to reinforce protective gear, tyres, and cables. In plain terms, a super-tough fiber best known for bulletproof vests, though also used in tyres, ropes, and protective clothing.

How do you pronounce “Kevlar”?

“Kevlar” is pronounced KEHV-lah (/ˈkɛvlɑɹ/ in IPA).

How do you use “Kevlar” in a sentence?

Here is “Kevlar” used in a sentence: “The vest was lined with Kevlar to stop small-caliber rounds.”

What part of speech is “Kevlar”?

“Kevlar” is a noun.

Where does the word “Kevlar” come from?

The word “Kevlar” dates back to around 1960. From "Kevlar", a trademarked brand name for the aramid fiber developed by DuPont in the 1960s.