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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 These light and flexible adventure shoes, however, are ideal for kayaking—and paddling, beach walks, or any other impromptu trek involving water. Clay Abney, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2025 On a healthy plant, the roots will be creamy white or tan colored, sturdy, and flexible. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2025 These flexible options make Optery the winner in the pricing matchup. PC Magazine, 13 Aug. 2025 Made from a breathable knit material, the sneakers are flexible and keep feet cool and comfortable. Jeaneen Russell, People.com, 13 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for flexible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flexible
Adjective
  • This top is made from buttery soft, lightweight fabric and features a relaxed fit similar to the one Holmes wore.
    Emily Weaver, People.com, 17 Aug. 2025
  • In fact, natural is the word to sum up Chapman, a host who, like Artie Bucco, could be described as warm and convivial, who rarely fails to ask piercing questions devoid of cliches and has a relaxed but authoritative style.
    Tim Spiers, New York Times, 17 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Here are five clear, plastic water bottles for back to school from popular brands like Owala, Yeti, Contigo, and more.
    Anja Webb, Parents, 8 Aug. 2025
  • Participants are asked to bring medications in a sealed plastic bag if possible.
    Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 8 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Herbert handed off to running back Kimani Vidal on a stretch rush to the left.
    Daniel Popper, New York Times, 23 July 2025
  • Preventing this plateau requires intentional pursuit of stretch experiences.
    ESMT Berlin, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • For Leibovitz, the journey has always been about staying alert, adaptable and deeply engaged with the world.
    Y-Jean Mun-Delsalle, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025
  • Cool, creamy and endlessly adaptable, yogurt has been winning over food lovers for centuries.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • From the legendary Diana Ross—who lasted attended in ‘03—to Zendaya's stunning white suit and floppy hat, these are the Met Gala 2025 looks that stood out and made an impact, according to Glamour editors.
    Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 6 May 2025
  • The look was completed with gray pleated trousers, a floppy black hat, a shiny black leather handbag and a chunky gold stack of bracelets worn on her left hand.
    Starr Bowenbank, People.com, 19 July 2025
Adjective
  • The seasoned attorney then built Oak Grove to make estate planning accessible, thoughtful, and resilient for families.
    Malana VanTyler, USA Today, 15 Aug. 2025
  • Liveness detection is one of several tools organizations can use to meet this moment, protect users and build resilient, digital trust.
    Mohamed Lazzouni, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • This led Liu to wonder if these pliant electronics might keep up with the mutable nature of embryonic brains.
    IEEE Spectrum, IEEE Spectrum, 11 June 2025
  • These moves give China not only privileged access to economic assets but also political leverage over a pliant neighbor within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), tightening its grip on a region central to its ambitions.
    Ye Myo Hein, Foreign Affairs, 17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Across conversations over the past two years, people who have worked in the footballing department and beyond have described him as a perfect, pliable pupil.
    Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 11 Aug. 2025
  • Amid the passing guest stars, Ortega remains the show’s only sustaining highlight, giving a performance that’s as precise as her character is pliable.
    Ben Travers, IndieWire, 6 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Flexible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flexible. Accessed 24 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on flexible

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