flexible

adjective

flex·​i·​ble ˈflek-sə-bəl 

1

: capable of being flexed : pliant

flexible branches swaying in the breeze

2

: yielding to influence : tractable

a flexible person without strong convictions

3

: characterized by a ready capability to adapt to new, different, or changing requirements

a flexible foreign policy

a flexible schedule

flexibility

ˌflek-sə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

flexibly

ˈflek-sə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms

• adaptable
• adjustable
• alterable
• changeable
• elastic
• fluid
• malleable
• modifiable
• pliable
• variable

Choose the Right Synonym for flexible

elastic, resilient, springy, flexible, supple mean able to endure strain without being permanently injured.

elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

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

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

supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

Examples of flexible in a Sentence

flexible branches swaying in the breeze

a material that is both strong and flexible

She's been doing exercises to become stronger and more flexible.

Our schedule for the weekend is very flexible.

This computer program has to be flexible to meet all our needs.

Whatever you want to do is fine with me. I'm flexible.

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Recent Examples on the Web

To reflect the benefits candidates are searching for more frequently on Built In, the program also weighs criteria like remote and flexible work opportunities, programs for DEI and other people-first cultural offerings. —Miami Herald, 24 Jan. 2024

While flexible work arrangements have been a great enabler for some sections of the labor pool, organizations are still trying to find answers on how remote or hybrid work impacts the productivity and performance of their employees. —Byprarthana Prakash, Fortune Europe, 22 Jan. 2024

The company saw a 23% increase in job applications after adopting a flexible work arrangement. —Paige McGlauflin, Fortune, 22 Jan. 2024

The plastic material is soft and flexible but very thick. —Kylie Gilbert, Glamour, 18 Jan. 2024

Duct tape This strong, flexible and super-sticky problem-solver can be used to patch cracks, rips, tears and holes on garden hoses, trash cans, tarps, tennis shoes and more. —Laura Daily, Washington Post, 17 Jan. 2024

Kale doesn’t need to be cooked, but it should be broken down, its fibrous texture softened into something silky and flexible. —Kendra Vaculin, Bon Appétit, 15 Jan. 2024

Currently $79, this basic staple will always be a treat to slip into for a long day of travel thanks to its fuzzy, ultra-soft material that feels great against the skin but stays stretchy and flexible to offer a full range of movement. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 14 Jan. 2024

Many of the airlines listed have extended the flexible travel booking period for rebooking through Saturday. —Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 12 Jan. 2024

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Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Latin flexibilis, from flexus (past participle of flectere "to cause to go in a different direction, bend, curve," of uncertain origin) + -ibilis -ible

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

flexible

adjective

flex·​i·​ble ˈflek-sə-bəl 

1

: capable of being bent : pliant

2

: readily changed or changing : adaptable

a flexible schedule

flexibility

ˌflek-sə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

noun

flexibly

ˈflek-sə-blē 

adverb

Medical Definition

flexible

adjective

flex·​i·​ble ˈflek-sə-bəl 

: capable of being flexed : capable of being turned, bowed, or twisted without breaking

flexible bandages

a flexible fiber-optic bronchoscope

flexibility

ˌflek-sə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

noun

plural flexibilities