malleability 1 of 2

as in plasticity
the quality or state of being easily molded the malleability and conductivity of gold makes it well-suited for use in electronic circuitry

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

malleable

2 of 2

adjective

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective malleable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of malleable are adaptable, ductile, plastic, pliable, and pliant. While all these words mean "susceptible of being modified in form or nature," malleable applies to what may be pressed or beaten into shape.

the malleable properties of gold

When is it sensible to use adaptable instead of malleable?

The synonyms adaptable and malleable are sometimes interchangeable, but adaptable implies the capability of being easily modified to suit other conditions, needs, or uses.

computer hardware that is adaptable

When would ductile be a good substitute for malleable?

Although the words ductile and malleable have much in common, ductile applies to what can be drawn out or extended with ease.

ductile metals such as copper

In what contexts can plastic take the place of malleable?

The words plastic and malleable can be used in similar contexts, but plastic applies to substances soft enough to be molded yet capable of hardening into the desired fixed form.

plastic materials allow the sculptor greater freedom

When might pliable be a better fit than malleable?

While the synonyms pliable and malleable are close in meaning, pliable suggests something easily bent, folded, twisted, or manipulated.

pliable rubber tubing

When can pliant be used instead of malleable?

The words pliant and malleable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, pliant may stress flexibility and sometimes connote springiness.

an athletic shoe with a pliant sole

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 malleability
Noun
Either because of its simplicity or its malleability, Americans consume them by the billions. Mike Snider, USA Today, 12 Apr. 2025 That malleability has been really valuable to learn in all parts of my life. Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29, 20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
Mimi is quiet and demure, and therefore quite malleable by music execs. Manuel Betancourt, Variety, 25 Apr. 2025 Are these bingeable and malleable like the somewhat disastrous but ambitious fourth season of Arrested Development? Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 1 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for malleability
Recent Examples of Synonyms for malleability
Noun
  • This enhancement of plasticity is thought to make the extinction of fear stronger and more lasting, leading to the observed reductions in PTSD symptoms.
    Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 9 May 2025
  • This process of synaptic plasticity is what produces representations of new information and experiences within your brain.
    Takaki Komiyama, The Conversation, 17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Moreover, these plastic threads less than 5 millimeters long, are released in billions with every laundry cycle.
    Dianne Plummer, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025
  • Chard can be stored in the refrigerator for two or three days, wrapped in moistened paper towels and placed in an unsealed plastic bag.
    Carole Kotkin, Miami Herald, 30 May 2025
Adjective
  • This pendant light is adaptable to sloped ceilings, has an adjustable height, and can be dimmed to deliver the perfect overhead glow day or night.
    Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2025
  • By strategically integrating emerging technologies, building robust security, and creating an adaptable environment, companies can not only withstand disruptions but also seize new opportunities.
    Karl Moore, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
Adjective
  • After all, supportive sneakers for walking through a city, flexible pants for long-haul flights, and versatile pieces that can be worn multiple times throughout a trip are essentials on any packing list.
    Rachel Trujillo, Travel + Leisure, 24 May 2025
  • Despite its grandeur, over the centuries the palace proved to be a flexible structure, capable of accommodating additions, splits, partitions, changes of ownership and use.
    Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 24 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Malleability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/malleability. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.

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