SUPPLE Synonyms: 56 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'supple' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of supple are elastic , flexible , resilient , and springy . While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury. // supple leather

Q: When is 'elastic' a more appropriate choice than 'supple'?

The words elastic and supple are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching. // an elastic waistband

Q: When is it sensible to use 'flexible' instead of 'supple'?

While the synonyms flexible and supple are close in meaning, 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: Where would 'resilient' be a reasonable alternative to 'supple'?

While in some cases nearly identical to supple , resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed. // a resilient innersole

Q: When can 'springy' be used instead of 'supple'?

The meanings of springy and supple largely overlap; however, 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

supple

adjective

ˈsə-pəl

Definition of supple next

as in flexible

able to bend easily without breaking a dome tent outfitted with supple fiberglass tent poles

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in stretch

able to revert to original size and shape after being stretched, squeezed, or twisted shoes made from supple leather

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective supple contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of supple are elastic, flexible, resilient, and springy. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

When is elastic a more appropriate choice than supple?

The words elastic and supple are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When is it sensible to use flexible instead of supple?

While the synonyms flexible and supple are close in meaning, 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

Where would resilient be a reasonable alternative to supple?

While in some cases nearly identical to supple, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

When can springy be used instead of supple?

The meanings of springy and supple largely overlap; however, 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

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 supple Chan said the coating delivers a soft, supple hand feel that surpasses traditional coating methods. —

Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 4 July 2024 My once perfectly supple skin was now dry and drained from the stress of going to a dream vacation destination. —

Celeste Polanco, Essence, 27 June 2024 To achieve the miniature landscapes, lapidary artists and jewelers spend hundreds of hours precisely cutting the stones and placing them in a painterly way on supple gold bracelets, each a work of art. —

Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 12 June 2024 Peter Nelson Both the front and rear seat areas are roomy, with pleasant overall materials quality and supple white leather. —

Peter Nelson, Ars Technica, 2 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for supple

Recent Examples of Synonyms for supple

Adjective

As tourism rebounds across the globe, properties in these areas can offer high returns with flexible rental terms and higher per-night rates, appealing to investors seeking quick profits.

Johan Hajji, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
This watch further established just how flexible this platform could be when working with unexpected materials.

Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 13 Dec. 2024