Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective elastic contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of elastic are flexible, resilient, springy, and supple. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When could flexible be used to replace elastic?

The meanings of flexible and elastic largely overlap; however, 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

When might resilient be a better fit than elastic?

Although the words resilient and elastic have much in common, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

In what contexts can springy take the place of elastic?

The words springy and elastic can be used in similar contexts, but 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 can supple be used instead of elastic?

The words supple and elastic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 elastic Instructions Step 1 To a medium bowl, add the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 cup of lukewarm water and knead until an elastic, sticky dough forms, about 2 minutes. Dimitris Chantziplakis, Saveur, 10 July 2025 Shoppers wear this beautiful maxi dress to weddings, baby showers, cruise trips, and more and love its strapless ruffle style, elastic waist, and flowy silhouette. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 8 July 2025 Opt for easygoing silhouettes with comfortable details, like an elastic waist and wide legs. Talia Abbas, Vogue, 7 July 2025 The shorts feature an elastic waistband and side zipper for easy on and off, and the length is perfect. Susan Brickell, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for elastic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic
Adjective
  • The upcoming academic year will mark the debut of a new, more flexible ban on cellphone use at schools.
    Ashley Mackin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 July 2025
  • This entails the focus on more flexible work arrangements and challenges the more deeply rooted traditional relationships between employees and employers.
    Bankim Chandra, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025
Adjective
  • Dunaway should get stretch powers, because Hollywood is cruel about women aging and Mr. Fantastic’s power can be used like Botox (see also: Elasti-Woman on Doom Patrol).
    Bethy Squires, Vulture, 17 July 2025
  • Your role is to coach, give honest feedback, and help identify stretch opportunities.
    Adrian Gostick, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
Adjective
  • Because charter schools are proving to be engines of talent development, economic mobility, and innovation in cities and states hungry for a skilled, adaptable workforce.
    Jeanne Allen, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
  • Initially, such adaptable machines could be used in challenging environments like disaster zones or outer space.
    Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 July 2025
Adjective
  • Simon added countries need to agree on the language for a treaty, so the world can work together to finally end plastic pollution.
    Jamie Hailstone, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • Each loaf was sold in a 12-ounce plastic bag marked with UPC 24126018152 on the bottom of the packaging.
    Isabel van Brugen, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • Enhance Relationships: Build A Resilient Ecosystem No leader is resilient alone.
    Maureen Metcalf, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
  • Sasha and Malia Obama have grown to be responsible, resilient, independent adults, and it’s become incredibly clear that Michelle Obama was up to the task of motherhood under a microscope—and many other initiatives in service of children.
    Celeste Little, Parents, 22 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elastic. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on elastic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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