First Known Use: 1674
Dictionary
1elastic
adjective elas·tic \i-ˈlas-tik\
: able to return to an original shape or size after being stretched, squeezed, etc.
: able to be changed
Full Definition of ELASTIC
1
a of a solid : capable of recovering size and shape after deformation b : relating to or being a collision between particles in which the total kinetic energy of the particles remains unchanged
2
: capable of recovering quickly especially from depression or disappointment <my elastic spirits revived — Wilkie Collins>
3
: capable of being easily stretched or expanded and resuming former shape : flexible <an elastic bandage>
4
a : capable of ready change or easy expansion or contraction : not rigid or constricted <an elastic concept> b : receptive to new ideas : adaptable <an elastic mind>
— elas·ti·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb
See elastic defined for English-language learners
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Origin of ELASTIC
New Latin elasticus, from Late Greek elastos ductile, beaten, from Greek elaunein to drive, beat out; probably akin to Greek ēlythe he went, Old Irish luid
Related to ELASTIC
- Synonyms
- bouncy, flexible, resilient, rubberlike, rubbery, springy, stretch, stretchable, stretchy, supple, whippy
- Antonyms
- inelastic, inflexible, nonelastic, rigid, stiff
Synonym Discussion of ELASTIC
elastic, resilient, springy, flexible, supple mean able to endure strain without being permanently injured. elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching <an elastic waistband>. resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed <a resilient innersole>. 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>. 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>. supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury <supple leather>.
Other Physics Terms
Rhymes with ELASTIC
2elastic
noun
: material that can be stretched : elastic fabric
Full Definition of ELASTIC
1
a : easily stretched rubber usually prepared in cords, strings, or bands b : rubber band
2
a : an elastic fabric usually made of yarns containing rubber b : something made from this fabric
See elastic defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of ELASTIC
1847
ELASTIC Defined for Kids
1elastic
adjective elas·tic \i-ˈla-stik\
Definition of ELASTIC for Kids
: capable of returning to original shape or size after being stretched, pressed, or squeezed together
2elastic
noun
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