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 That’s why the team replaced the rigid sheet with an elastic one. Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 9 Apr. 2025 The elastic fabric is used to stretch and move with the body. India Espy-Jones, Essence, 9 Apr. 2025 However, switching to elastic materials came with its challenges. Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 9 Apr. 2025 The stretchy tube top has a rubber edge to prevent it from sliding down (no need for double-sided tape here), while the wide-leg pants have an elastic waistband and stylish seams down the front. Michelle Rostamian, People.com, 9 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for elastic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic
Adjective
  • The device uses microneedles and flexible wiring to capture neural signals just beneath the skin, enhancing signal quality while minimizing invasiveness.
    Charlie Fink, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Want a new career that’s higher-paying, more flexible or fulfilling?
    Kamaron McNair, CNBC, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • But farther up Doheny, a black sea of stretch limos and town cars flowed in and out of another, bigger, more raucous post-Oscar blowout still in full swing.
    Scott Huver, The Hollywood Reporter, 28 Feb. 2025
  • 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
Adjective
  • Research shows that people who are more curious often feel more fulfilled and adaptable.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
  • The discovery suggests Denisovans were adaptable to a variety of environments and climates, from chilly, high-elevation places like Siberia and the Tibetan Plateau to warm, humid locales like Taiwan.
    Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Use a breathable paper or mesh bag, not plastic, to store your hyacinth bulbs.
    Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Apr. 2025
  • In South Broward County, Gladys Vasquez of Miramar clutches a plastic grocery bag and says the contents continue to cost more, listing foods like cheese and yogurt.
    Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Despite promising research underway around the world, including efforts to develop more resilient vanilla orchids, climate impacts are likely to cause more shortages and price spikes in years to come.
    SAVEUR Editors, Saveur, 16 Apr. 2025
  • With more regulations on the horizon, taking action now not only reduces future compliance risks but also positions buildings to be cost-efficient and more resilient in the long run.
    Manish Kumar, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elastic. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on elastic

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