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 Most neck pillows include adjustable elastic or Velcro straps to fit against the headrest. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2025 On the other side, an ingenious elastic strap design cleverly holds your hat. Rebecca Deurlein, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025 Customizable men’s boxer brief: Awarded the prestigious 2023 ISPO award, these offer three customizable leg length options and three customizable elastic waistband options, enabling a perfect fit tailored to your unique body shape and size. Mayu Saini, Sourcing Journal, 14 Apr. 2025 The elastic waistband is forgiving (especially post-resort buffet), and the wide legs allow airflow, even in hot climates. Becca Blond, Travel + Leisure, 13 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for elastic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic
Adjective
  • Want a new career that’s higher-paying, more flexible or fulfilling?
    Kamaron McNair, CNBC, 18 Apr. 2025
  • 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
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
  • Why is a new No 10 important for Amorim? Analysis from Laurie Whitwell Cunha’s familiarity with that position behind the striker in a 3-4-2-1 formation enhances his appeal for United, who want adaptable players but also need new signings to hit the ground running.
    Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • And a third category were boxes outfitted with plastic plants, perhaps signaling absentee owners or landlords who seek to simulate care.
    Sonja Dümpelmann, The Conversation, 24 Apr. 2025
  • The wireless charging pad for mobile devices is now capable of 15 W, and the much-disliked capacitive multifunction steering wheel has been replaced by a wheel with plastic buttons.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 24 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • 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
  • 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

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Cite this Entry

“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elastic. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on elastic

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