elastic

adjective

i-ˈla-stik How to pronounce elastic (audio)
Definition of elasticnext
1
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
2
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

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 The elastic waistband ensures comfortable wiggle room around the waistline, and the button-up shirt can double as a versatile top layer to cover your shoulders or worn on its own. —Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 28 May 2025 This pair is breathable, has an elastic waistband for more breathing room, and is incredibly comfortable for those warm summer days at happy hour with the girls. —Jacquelyn Smith, Parents, 27 May 2025 The pull-on design, elastic waistband, and adjustable tie waist make for a comfortable fit. —Nicol Natale, People.com, 26 May 2025 The wide leg gives you plenty of room to stride without feeling confined by fabric, and the elastic waistband provides plenty of stretch. —Nicole Pyles, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for elastic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic
  1. flexible
  2. stretch
  3. adaptable
  4. plastic
  5. resilient
Adjective
  • Everything has to be centred on them, perhaps with a flexible back three with three attacking midfielders: Havertz as a false nine, Musiala half left, Wirtz half right.
    — Philipp Lahm, New York Times, 6 June 2025
  • The spacious, luminous cabin measures 800 cubic feet with a 6-foot-5-inch ceiling, comfortably accommodating four or more passengers in a luxurious, flexible layout.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 5 June 2025
Definition of flexible
Adjective
  • All season long, New York has struggled to contain stretch bigs.
    — Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 21 May 2025
  • Made with a stretch cotton French terry material, the half-zip is soft on the inside while maintaining its chic, cropped exterior.
    — Madison Yauger, People.com, 10 May 2025
Definition of stretch
Adjective
  • This pendant light is adaptable to sloped ceilings, has an adjustable height, and can be dimmed to deliver the perfect overhead glow day or night.
    — Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2025
  • By strategically integrating emerging technologies, building robust security, and creating an adaptable environment, companies can not only withstand disruptions but also seize new opportunities.
    — Karl Moore, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
Definition of adaptable
Adjective
  • Yeti Yonder Water Bottle Yeti loyalists, rejoice: The renowned cooler and insulated water bottle brand also has a plastic, freezeable option.
    — Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 12 June 2025
  • Use a sharp garden trowel and dispose of the plants in a plastic bag.
    — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 11 June 2025
Definition of plastic
Adjective
  • This systems lens addresses complex global challenges and fosters resilient societies.
    — Maureen Metcalf, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
  • But by late morning, fresh data showing the labor market remains resilient helped brighten the mood on Wall Street, which (like the rest of us) has become somewhat inured to doom-y headlines.
    — Allison Morrow, CNN Money, 4 June 2025
Definition of resilient

Browse Nearby Words

elapsing
elastic
elasticity
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Cite this Entry

“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elastic. Accessed 16 Jun. 2025.

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