Elastic: meaning, definitions and examples

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elastic

 

[ ɪˈlæstɪk ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

material properties

Capable of stretching and returning to its original shape or size.

Synonyms

flexible, springy, stretchy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
elastic

Suitable for describing materials that return to their original shape after being stretched or compressed. Often used in the context of clothes, bands, or materials in engineering.

  • These pants have an elastic waistband for a comfortable fit.
  • She tied her hair back with an elastic band.
flexible

Ideal for describing objects or materials that can bend easily without breaking, as well as for describing someone's adaptable nature.

  • The flexible hose can be bent in any direction.
  • She is very flexible with her schedule.
stretchy

Best for describing materials that can extend or elongate easily without tearing. Often refers to clothing or fabrics specifically.

  • This fabric is super stretchy and moves with you.
  • The leggings are made of a stretchy material that's perfect for yoga.
springy

Used to describe something that bounces back quickly after being compressed. Has a more playful or lively connotation.

  • The new mattress is very springy and comfortable.
  • His steps were light and springy, full of energy.

Examples of usage

  • The elastic band snapped back when released.
  • The elastic waistband on my pants allows for a comfortable fit.
Context #2 | Noun

clothing

A narrow band of rubber or similar material used to hold things in place or to provide tension.

Synonyms

bungee, cord, rubber band.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
elastic

Used to describe something that can return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed.

  • The waistband of these pants is made of elastic material.
  • She tied her hair back with an elastic.
rubber band

A loop of rubber, often used for holding several objects together or securing items.

  • He used a rubber band to keep the stack of papers organized.
  • The bundle of pencils was held together with a rubber band.
bungee

Commonly associated with 'bungee jumping,' it refers to the strong, elastic cord used for this activity.

  • He felt a rush of adrenaline during his first bungee jump.
  • The bungee cord stretched and then recoiled, bringing him back up.
cord

Generally refers to a long, flexible material, often used for tying or securing objects.

  • She wrapped the package in a strong cord.
  • The lamp's electrical cord dragged on the floor.

Examples of usage

  • She tied her hair back with an elastic.
  • The elastic on the fitted sheet keeps it securely in place.

Translations

Translations of the word "elastic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 elástico

🇮🇳 लोचदार

🇩🇪 elastisch

🇮🇩 elastis

🇺🇦 еластичний

🇵🇱 elastyczny

🇯🇵 弾性のある

🇫🇷 élastique

🇪🇸 elástico

🇹🇷 elastik

🇰🇷 탄력 있는

🇸🇦 مرن

🇨🇿 elastický

🇸🇰 elastický

🇨🇳 弹性的

🇸🇮 elastičen

🇮🇸 teygjanlegur

🇰🇿 созылмалы

🇬🇪 ელასტიური

🇦🇿 elastik

🇲🇽 elástico

Etymology

The word 'elastic' originated from the Medieval Latin 'elasticus', meaning 'tending to spring', which in turn came from the Greek 'elastikos', meaning 'propulsive'. The concept of elasticity has been recognized since ancient times, with Aristotle and Galen discussing it in their works.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,555, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.