ELASTIC Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

elastic

adjective

i-ˈla-stik

Definition of elastic next

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

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

Examples 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 So, this extremely elastic new provision adds nothing to the equation other than more empty rhetoric and greater bureaucratic bloat. —

Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 7 Jan. 2025 Collagen, the protein that keeps skin elastic and firm, begins to decline as early as your late 20s, dropping by about 1% annually. —

Eva Crouse, Flow Space, 6 Jan. 2025 While some dresses can be restricting and uncomfortable, the Deacon is anything but the sort, with an easy-fit design and an elastic empire waistband that provides flexibility while still offering some shape. —

Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 6 Jan. 2025 Not forgiven, but you were accorded a few more days to tidy up your elastic finances. —

Jacques Kelly, Baltimore Sun, 4 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for elastic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic

Adjective

The doc possesses a flexible form that rightly insists the rest of us lean in.

— Lisa Kennedy, Variety, 24 Jan. 2025
They are known for being more flexible, providing a player shows a determination to leave.

— The Athletic UK Staff, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025