Nonwovens are broadly defined as web-like structures bonded together by mechanically entangled fibers, thermally fused fibers, or chemically bonded fibers.

Nonwovens are more precisely defined by various bodies, the most commonly cited being the International Association of Nonwovens and Disposables.

Nonwovens are sheets, webs or rods of natural and man-made fibers or filaments, excluding paper, that have not been converted into yarns and are bonded to each other in any of a variety of ways.