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
  • 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
  • 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
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
  • Letz is a physically and emotionally pliant but also a verbose actor of great versatility, able to play a standard Second City dad and Chicag’ow type, but also a neurotic (lots of call for that in this show) and a dweeb and, well, whatever gets thrown his way.
    Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 9 May 2025
  • Both sides were able to claim victory through their pliant national media.
    SUSHANT SINGH, Foreign Affairs, 29 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
  • These innovations are reshaping urban mobility and sustainability, enabling cities to become smarter, greener, and more resilient.
    Hemanth Volikatla, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025
  • Both the bridge and the viaduct would also be far more resilient in the face of rising seas.
    Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 23 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 29 May. 2025.

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