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 Taken together, the data suggests higher pay for more flexible work isn’t a result of remote employees successfully proving to their bosses that their work-from-home practices or productivity warrants higher pay. Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 26 Feb. 2026 Many advocates and executives are worried the agency may be retreating from the flexible approach regulators have promised in recent years. Jason Mast, STAT, 26 Feb. 2026 American parents, who can sometimes, though certainly not always, adhere rigidly to strict sleep-training schedules may miss out on this more flexible style of family life. Katrina Donham, Parents, 25 Feb. 2026 But the company acknowledged the new framework is more flexible than its past policy. Clare Duffy, CNN Money, 25 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flexible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flexible
Adjective
  • What does stand out, though, is the ergonomic, adjustable handlebar that can adjust to fit the height of the user.
    Erica Zazo, Outside, 20 Feb. 2026
  • This particular set also comes with a fire pit table with adjustable heat controls for an enjoyable outdoor setup even on brisk spring nights.
    Melanie Fincher, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The kakapo is too heavy, too slow and, frankly, too delicious to survive around predators, and takes a shamelessly relaxed approach to reproduction.
    Charlotte Graham-McLay, Los Angeles Times, 24 Feb. 2026
  • Mornings can begin nearby at Café Comunión, and Abracadabra makes for a relaxed brunch.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The typical mini shower gels and shampoos have also been replaced with refillable large bottles, further minimising plastic waste.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026
  • Nadeau notes that molded or sculptural chairs often made out of plastic or mixed materials are also in vogue.
    Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 21 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Underwear with stretch fabric is key to keeping maternity underwear from feeling too restrictive.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 24 Feb. 2026
  • Advances in stretch denim have reshaped the workwear fabric’s place in fashion.
    Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 24 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Robots made from these materials could be lighter, safer, and more adaptable than traditional metal machines.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 24 Feb. 2026
  • For this reason, retirement planning must be adaptable.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 23 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The 32-year-old British musician first stepped into the spotlight on The X Factor as a floppy-haired teenager before becoming part of One Direction, the boy band that defined a generation of pop fandom.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 20 Feb. 2026
  • From the colorful, floppy hairstyles of Korean boy band Stray Kids, or the non-binary wardrobes of trailblazing singers like G-Dragon of Big Bang and Seonghwa of ATEEZ, K-pop’s male idols have long fostered diverse expressions of masculinity.
    Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Intensifying climate risks create larger financial burdens on utility companies to maintain service, limiting investments in future resilient infrastructure.
    Charlotte Slovin, ABC News, 25 Feb. 2026
  • Ukraine economy proves resilient, despite war damage Ukraine’s economic reconstruction will cost about $588 billion over the next decade, according to new estimates released a day before the four-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
    semafor.com, semafor.com, 25 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • But whether that would make Tehran more pliant, let alone spur regime change, is questionable.
    Ramin Mostaghim, Los Angeles Times, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Expect someone more pliant to become the next Fed chair.
    Erik Sherman, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flexible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flexible. Accessed 28 Feb. 2026.

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