Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective supple contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of supple are elastic, flexible, resilient, and springy. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

When is elastic a more appropriate choice than supple?

The words elastic and supple are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When is it sensible to use flexible instead of supple?

While the synonyms flexible and supple are close in meaning, 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 resilient be a reasonable alternative to supple?

While in some cases nearly identical to supple, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

When can springy be used instead of supple?

The meanings of springy and supple largely overlap; however, 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

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 supple The new ‘It’ bag has been spotted on Bella Hadid numerous times: the Brooklyn 39 in both smooth black leather and supple cedar suede. Erin Lassner, The Hollywood Reporter, 28 Nov. 2024 The party is essentially a family firm, now fronted by his more politically supple daughter Marine Le Pen. Lauren Collins, The New Yorker, 7 Dec. 2024 This particular ingredient contains a slew of amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals essential for plump, supple skin. Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 29 Oct. 2024 Strong yet supple leather is a great choice for a passport holder, while vegan leather (typically PU) offers an alternative for those who prefer to avoid leather for ethical or economical reasons. Jessica MacDonald, Travel + Leisure, 15 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for supple
Recent Examples of Synonyms for supple
Adjective
  • The rules around federal civil proceedings are slightly more flexible, allowing for recording in some instances at the discretion of the judge.
    Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 13 May 2025
  • Some linguists and other scientists have been quick to point out that chimpanzee communication is far less flexible and complicated than human language.
    Jon Hamilton, NPR, 12 May 2025
Adjective
  • Made with a stretch cotton French terry material, the half-zip is soft on the inside while maintaining its chic, cropped exterior.
    Madison Yauger, People.com, 10 May 2025
  • Denim veteran Piero Turk plugged into his roots in Italian luxury with garments that utilized the comfort of stretch denim without fitting tight on the body.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 24 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The 19 Best White Hydrangeas for Your Garden The 12 Best Pruning Shears to Keep Your Garden in Check In early spring, hydrangea produce fresh, slightly pliant new growth known as softwood, which make excellent cuttings for propagating.
    Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Political parties have been dissolved by a pliant judiciary.
    Sun Narin, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Instead, Pack Reusable Silicone Snack Bags $13 at Amazon Silicone snack bags are an inexpensive, healthy alternative to plastic food bags.
    Laura Lu, Parents, 19 May 2025
  • Seth is working there, and Joel brings a plastic freezer bag full of LEGOs, which Seth’s grandkids will love, to trade.
    Kimberly Roots, TVLine, 18 May 2025
Adjective
  • Two ultra-limber actors — Hassiem Muhammad and Ryan Sellers — in garish body makeup (and dance shoes) merge limbs and psyches for an electric demonstration of poetry in motion.
    Peter Marks, Washington Post, 26 Jan. 2023
  • For thousands of years, people have turned to yoga to feel more limber, release stress and rejuvenate their overall physical and mental health.
    Forrest Brown, CNN, 21 June 2022
Adjective
  • Lawn Maintenance Maintaining the lawn is key to reducing clover, a hardy and resilient plant, from cropping up and keeping the turf the right height.
    Lauren David, Southern Living, 11 May 2025
  • While there was a win in terms of how resilient the North American power grid was in the face of the storm, the agriculture industry took a hit as vulnerabilities with GPS systems that help guide tractors were exposed when the solar storm reached Earth.
    Meredith Garofalo, Space.com, 10 May 2025
Adjective
  • This can reduce your risk of straining muscles while also leveling up your performance, since your tissues are more pliable and ready to work, Dr. Yu explains.
    Jenny McCoy, SELF, 1 May 2025
  • Every seam, hole, etc. was sealed with a gasket or with a special acoustic caulk that stays pliable for decades.
    Tim Carter, Hartford Courant, 19 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • His take swaps adidas’ classic leather uppers for suede and canvas, paired with translucent gum soles and soft, slipper-like elastic collars.
    Olivia Cigliano, Footwear News, 14 May 2025
  • Neoprene rubber arm and body bands are better than elastic.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 13 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Supple.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/supple. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on supple

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