Definition of elasticnext

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 snake-effect leather pumps had a narrow point, a low-cut vamp and an elastic slingback strap. Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 30 June 2026 Crisscross elastic straps emulate the delicate presentation of real ballerina shoes. Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 29 June 2026 The Pima cotton feels silky and cooling, and the little elastic ruffle gives it some pizazz. Lauren Finney Harden, InStyle, 26 June 2026 This two-piece set includes a short-sleeve crewneck shirt and shorts with an elastic waistband for a comfortable, relaxed fit. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for elastic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic
Adjective
  • Most importantly, organizations need to stay flexible themselves.
    Johnny C. Taylor Jr, USA Today, 30 June 2026
  • The four-piece set includes two semi-transparent and two transparent shades made from a lightweight, flexible mesh material that utilizes static energy to cling to windows without the need for adhesives or suction cups.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • The shorts also have a zipper and flap pocket on either hip to store your small belongings, and it’s built with an elastic waistband and drawstring for an adjustable fit.
    Olivia Dubyak, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2026
  • To keep up with the fast-moving aerial acts, the app features an adjustable countdown timer set to the official schedule.
    Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • Like many of Levi’s best-selling styles, they’re made from 100-percent cotton and have a non-stretch fit.
    Iman Balagam, InStyle, 26 June 2026
  • The halter dress was crafted with stretch silk with a sleek column silhouette complemented by a halter neckline and an open back.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • Bierly’s delicate voice proves surprisingly adaptable throughout the record.
    Nick Ayres DeMasi, Pitchfork, 1 July 2026
  • Garment innovation is also advancing, with inclusive sizing and adaptable fits gaining more attention across the industry.
    Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • The strips are piled high in plastic bins, sprawled over tables and fed underneath bobbing needles.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 4 July 2026
  • Furthermore, the National Onion Association advises against storing onions with potatoes (onions emit ethylene gas, which will cause potatoes to ripen) or other produce that releases moisture and storing them in plastic bags.
    Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • The waistband is made with stretchy material that doesn't dig into your skin, even during long walks or workouts.
    Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026
  • Capris and cropped pants are shaping up to be one of summer 2026’s biggest trends, making this stretchy cotton pair an excellent score.
    Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • The river has pushed away even the most resilient, leaving behind 22 people who live in Kaskaskia, according to the census.
    Andrew Carter, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • The nation that leads in secure artificial intelligence, trusted cloud computing, resilient critical infrastructure, quantum technologies and digital innovation will define much of the twenty-first century economy.
    Emil Sayegh, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • In this new work, a soft, stretchable mechanochromic material was developed.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 3 July 2026
  • Featuring short-sleeves, a V-neck cut, smocked high waist, and wide-leg design, this soft and stretchable jumpsuit provides extreme comfort.
    Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 20 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elastic. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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