springy

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective springy contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of springy are elastic, flexible, resilient, and supple. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," 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 is it sensible to use elastic instead of springy?

In some situations, the words elastic and springy are roughly equivalent. However, elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When would flexible be a good substitute for springy?

The words flexible and springy can be used in similar contexts, but 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

In what contexts can resilient take the place of springy?

While the synonyms resilient and springy are close in meaning, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

When is supple a more appropriate choice than springy?

The synonyms supple and springy are sometimes interchangeable, but supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

Thesaurus Entries Near springy

Cite this Entry

“Springy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/springy. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on springy

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!