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

Relevance

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 Dawn Kenney, Wacoal’s National Fit Expert, recommends looking for a style that has a thick band that isn’t going to collapse, meaning it should be made of thicker materials like spandex or elastic, or have a nonslip silicone strip. —

Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 18 Oct. 2024 Our tendons become drier, thinner and less elastic; muscles, in general, become smaller. —

Deborah Vankin, Los Angeles Times, 9 Oct. 2024 Compression: Wrap your calf in a supportive elastic bandage to provide some support and reduce swelling. —

Amy Kwan, Verywell Health, 1 Nov. 2024 The final touch is a couple of dangly toys in the shape of hanging bats on elastic strings. —

Simon Hill, WIRED, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for elastic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic

Adjective

Underfoot, the flexible sole provides unobtrusive support and a stable, comfortable platform without drawing attention to itself.

The Editors, Outside Online, 18 Nov. 2024
In total, that means the system is more accessible than some mini PCs, but not as flexible or upgradable as a traditional tower.

PCMAG, PCMAG, 16 Nov. 2024