elas·tic
i-ˈla-stik 
1
a
of a solid
: capable of recovering size and shape after deformation
b
: relating to or being a collision between particles in which the total kinetic energy of the particles remains unchanged
2
: capable of recovering quickly especially from depression or disappointment
my elastic spirits revived—
Wilkie Collins
Wilkie Collins3
: capable of being easily stretched or expanded and resuming former shape : flexible
an elastic bandage
4
a
: capable of ready change or easy expansion or contraction : not rigid or constricted
an elastic concept
b
: receptive to new ideas : adaptable
an elastic mind
1
a
: easily stretched rubber usually prepared in cords, strings, or bands
b
2
a
: an elastic fabric usually made of yarns containing rubber
b
: something made from this fabric
Synonyms
Examples of elastic in a Sentence
Adjective
when vacationing, we generally have very elastic daily sightseeing plans
Noun
She wrapped an elastic around the cards.
Recent Examples on the Web
Kathleen Felton, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2024
Spandex and rubber elastic, two of the most common materials sports bras are made out of, lose their compression powers over time, and with it, their ability to keep your breasts in place, says Susan L. Sokolowski, a professor of sports product design at the University of Oregon.
—Julia Ries, Outside Online, 31 Oct. 2024
Gabrielle Porcaro, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2024
The waistband is also adjustable, with internal elastic and a drawstring, and the water-resistant fabric has four-way stretch that moves with you.
—Sara Coughlin, SELF, 25 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for elastic 
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Adjective
The seams, elastic, and stitching remained in perfect condition.
—Kathleen Felton, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2024
Spandex and rubber elastic, two of the most common materials sports bras are made out of, lose their compression powers over time, and with it, their ability to keep your breasts in place, says Susan L. Sokolowski, a professor of sports product design at the University of Oregon.
—Julia Ries, Outside Online, 31 Oct. 2024
Noun
There are dressy details like a hook and tab with zipper fly closure, and comfy details like the hidden elastic at the back waist that keeps the fit non-restrictive.
—Gabrielle Porcaro, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2024
The waistband is also adjustable, with internal elastic and a drawstring, and the water-resistant fabric has four-way stretch that moves with you.
—Sara Coughlin, SELF, 25 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for elastic
Dictionary Entries Near elastic
Cite this Entry
“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elastic. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
elastic
1 of 2 adjective
elas·tic
i-ˈlas-tik
1
a
: capable of returning to original shape or size after being stretched, pressed, or squeezed together
sponges are elastic
b
: capable of indefinite expansion
gases are elastic substances
2
: able to recover quickly especially from sadness or disappointment
youthful, elastic spirit
3
: capable of being changed : flexible
an elastic plan
elasticity
noun
i-ˌlas-ˈtis-ət-ē
ˌē-ˌlas-
elastic
2 of 2 noun1
2
a
: an elastic fabric usually made of yarns containing rubber
b
: something made from elastic fabric
Medical Definition
elastic
1 of 2 adjective
elas·tic
i-ˈlas-tik
1
a
of a solid
: capable of recovering size and shape after deformation
b
of a liquid
: capable of resisting compression
c
of a gas
: capable of indefinite expansion
2
: capable of being easily stretched or expanded and resuming former shape
elastic
2 of 2 noun1
a
: easily stretched rubber usually prepared in cords, strings, or bands
b
: a band of elastic used especially in orthodontics
also
: one placed around a tooth at the gumline in effecting its nonsurgical removal
2
a
: an elastic fabric usually made of yarns containing rubber
b
: something made from this fabric
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