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

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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

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 offers both full coverage and maximum comfort. —

Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 16 Jan. 2025 Just enough elastic at the ankle to be tapered without being too tight. —

Dana Leigh Smith, Glamour, 16 Jan. 2025 That said, any dermatological benefits of microgravity are outweighed by its cons: microgravity can cause skin to become less elastic and thinner over a short period of time, resulting in dryness, peeling, bruising and a host of other skin issues. —

Regina Kim, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025 The bag can be worn on the waist or crossbody style thanks to its 3.5-foot adjustable strap; there’s an elastic loop to secure any excess strap as well. —

Kaitlin Gates, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for elastic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic

Adjective

Traditional curbside recycling systems cannot process most beauty packaging due to design, which is often too small, too flexible or made of too many different material types.

— Lauren Parker, Sourcing Journal, 5 Feb. 2025
Programs such as the Military Spouse Preference program and the Military Spouse Employment Partnership could offer pathways to secure employment with remote or flexible options.

— Johnny C. Taylor Jr., USA TODAY, 4 Feb. 2025