Definition of flexiblenext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective flexible contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of flexible are elastic, resilient, springy, and supple. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," 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

Where would elastic be a reasonable alternative to flexible?

While in some cases nearly identical to flexible, elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When would resilient be a good substitute for flexible?

Although the words resilient and flexible have much in common, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

When is it sensible to use springy instead of flexible?

The words springy and flexible are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 could supple be used to replace flexible?

The words supple and flexible can be used in similar contexts, but 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 flexible Alongside nuclear energy, natural gas plays a critical role in maintaining a reliable and affordable energy system by providing flexible, dispatchable power that can quickly respond to changes in electricity demand. Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 Original creditors tend to be less flexible on the number, but may still offer lower settlements or hardship programs worth asking about. Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 29 June 2026 Evidence standards are more flexible, making the system more accessible to victims. ABC News, 29 June 2026 Road trips can be a budget-friendly and flexible way to travel with kids, especially for families with unique needs. Jaclyn Greenberg, Parents, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for flexible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flexible
Adjective
  • The headband is flexible for a perfect fit, and the adjustable earcups have plush cushioning to prevent pinching.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026
  • Its three-in-one design is a huge win for people like adjustable pillows but don't want to store leftover fills or inserts.
    Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • The relaxed fit offers plenty of comfort while the print keeps things visually interesting.
    Mia McManus, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026
  • Her hosting playbook still sets the tone, even as a new generation reshapes it for a more relaxed era.
    Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • To accomplish this, place the pit in a plastic bag with a moist paper towel.
    SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 27 June 2026
  • It is usually made of plastic or composite material, though some are metal like your VW.
    John Paul Senior Manager Public Affairs And Traffic Safety Aaa Northeast, Hartford Courant, 27 June 2026
Adjective
  • 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
  • The Ribcage Wide-Leg jeans have a high-rise waist that’s right on trend, along with a leg-lengthening inseam and non-stretch denim that breaks in beautifully.
    Annie Blackman, InStyle, 16 June 2026
Adjective
  • Each pillow has an outer and inner pillow, offering adaptable support for every type of sleeper.
    Madeline Merinuk, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026
  • Kevin Warsh, the Republican financier who recently took over as the chairman of the Federal Reserve, holds economic views that could, kindly, be described as adaptable.
    John Cassidy, New Yorker, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • Dogs of all shapes and sizes entered the gates of Citi Field Thursday night with wagging tails, floppy ears and plenty of Mets gear.
    Christina Cardona, USA Today, 26 June 2026
  • Jayden Antropov, a floppy-haired recent high-school graduate, had taken the day off from working two part-time jobs, at Publix and at a burger joint.
    Eliza Griswold, New Yorker, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • Paraguay scored early, then lost Miguel Almiron to a red card for covering his mouth — a first — but remained resilient enough to bounce back.
    Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 24 June 2026
  • While governments face pressure to invest in adaptation measures, from cooling centers to heat-resilient infrastructure, experts warn that such steps risk addressing the symptoms rather than the cause.
    Elmira Aliieva, NBC news, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • The unions want their pliant board majority in place through 2032.
    U T Editorial Board, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 May 2026
  • Fennel, cumin, coriander and black pepper perfume sistani, another round flatbread with barley mixed into the wheat flour for a nutty taste and pliant crumb.
    Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flexible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flexible. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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