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 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 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
  • 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
  • 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 relaxed silhouette works for everything from beach walks to dinner plans, while the stretchy smock waistband feels comfy after a long day of exploring.
    Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026
  • These pants are a PEOPLE reader favorite thanks to their sneakily stretchy fabric and leg-elongating bootcut leg.
    Madeline Merinuk, PEOPLE, 26 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
  • 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
  • Scientists in South Korea have unveiled an ultra-stretchable hydrogen electrolyte that can expand up to 900 percent of its original size while staying fully functional at subzero temperatures.
    Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 3 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elastic. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

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