elastic

adjective

i-ˈla-stik How to pronounce elastic (audio)
Definition of elasticnext
1
as in flexible
able to revert to original size and shape after being stretched, squeezed, or twisted elastic rubber bands

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in adjustable
capable of being readily changed when vacationing, we generally have very elastic daily sightseeing plans

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective elastic contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of elastic are flexible, resilient, springy, and supple. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When could flexible be used to replace elastic?

The meanings of flexible and elastic largely overlap; however, flexible applies to something which may or may not be resilient or elastic but which can be bent or folded without breaking.

flexible plastic tubing

When might resilient be a better fit than elastic?

Although the words resilient and elastic have much in common, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

In what contexts can springy take the place of elastic?

The words springy and elastic can be used in similar contexts, but springy stresses both the ease with which something yields to pressure and the quickness of its return to original shape.

the cake is done when the top is springy

When can supple be used instead of elastic?

The words supple and elastic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of elastic These shorts are relaxed just enough for a flattering look, and the elastic waistband offers plenty of stretch. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 30 Mar. 2025 They’re fitted with a multitude of spacious and secure pockets for holding all your in-flight essentials, while an adjustable elastic waistband provides unending comfort whether you’re seated or standing. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 30 Mar. 2025 It’s created by a process called supercritical foaming that combines heat, pressure, and liquid gas to infuse bubbles into elastic polymers like PEBA, TPEE, and ATPU. —Jonathan Beverly, Outside Online, 21 Mar. 2025 Digital Domain ran a series of tests from being puppet-like to completely elastic like a human. —Bill Desowitz, IndieWire, 19 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for elastic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic
  1. flexible
  2. stretch
  3. adaptable
  4. plastic
  5. resilient
Adjective
  • These include widespread access to affordable childcare, generous parental leave shared between both parents, and flexible work arrangements.
    — Newsweek Staff, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Apr. 2025
  • One reason for this is that estrogen helps keep blood vessels flexible and supports the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that allows vessels to relax and maintain healthy blood flow.
    — Matthew Nudy, The Conversation, 4 Apr. 2025
Definition of flexible
Adjective
  • Additionally, Korkmaz said stretch fabrics are making a strong comeback, reminiscent of the early 2000s, but reimagined with current technology.
    — Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 5 Mar. 2025
  • Take Breaks Throughout The Day Taking a pause every 50 minutes to relax, stretch, meditate or engage in something enjoyable has been a game-changer for me.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025
Definition of stretch
Adjective
  • Chenier said Family First Center is trying to be adaptable in the event that federal funding is cut.
    — Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2025
  • These minor setbacks pale in comparison to the challenges faced by rivals like Man City, whose struggles can be attributed to a lack of tactical flexibility — a stark contrast to Chelsea’s adaptable approach.
    — Julia Ranney, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025
Definition of adaptable
Adjective
  • But that’s not the case with all Affiliated Food’s suppliers —several have already notified the company of price increases because of tariffs, including bananas and canned tuna, as well as plastic utensils.
    — Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN Money, 9 Apr. 2025
  • The pieces had come from the beach in Hawaii, where Dr. Garcia and others collected 1,800 pounds of plastic debris and 500 pounds of netting.
    — Nina Agrawal, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2025
Definition of plastic
Adjective
  • Jackson County Public Health Director Bridgette Shaffer said public health infrastructure acts as the foundation of a healthy, resilient and thriving community.
    — Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 5 Apr. 2025
  • The path forward lies in leveraging technology to enhance customer experience and create a resilient, compliant and future-ready organization.
    — Monica Hovsepian, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Definition of resilient

Browse Nearby Words

elapsing
elastic
elasticity
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Cite this Entry

“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elastic. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

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