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Malleable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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malleable

[ˈmæl.i.ə.bəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

material

Capable of being shaped or bent without breaking.

Synonyms

ductile, flexible, pliable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
malleable

Describes a material or a person that can be easily shaped or influenced. Commonly used in contexts related to metals or to express how adaptable someone is.

  • Gold is highly malleable, making it perfect for crafting jewelry.
  • Children's minds are malleable, so it's important to teach them good values early.
flexible

Refers to objects or people that can bend easily without breaking, or to someone who is open to change or adaptation.

  • The yoga instructor is incredibly flexible and can perform complex poses effortlessly.
  • Our company offers flexible working hours to accommodate different schedules.
pliable

Similar to flexible, but often used to describe materials or substances that are easily bent or shaped. It can also refer to a person who is easily influenced or controlled, which can have a negative connotation.

  • The leather needs to be pliable enough to be stitched into the desired shape.
  • She was a pliable young woman, always agreeing with whatever her friends suggested.
ductile

Primarily used in a scientific or technical context to describe metals that can be drawn out into thin wires without breaking.

  • Copper is a ductile metal often used in electrical wiring.
  • Steel, when alloyed properly, can become more ductile and suitable for various industrial applications.

Examples of usage

  • Gold is a malleable metal that can be easily shaped into jewelry.
  • The clay was soft and malleable, making it easy to sculpt.
Context #2 | Adjective

personality

Capable of being easily influenced or controlled.

Synonyms

adaptable, impressionable, pliant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
malleable

Use this word when describing something, often a metal or material, that can be easily shaped or bent without breaking. It can also refer to a person's character being easily influenced or changed.

  • Gold is a very malleable metal.
  • Children's minds are highly malleable.
adaptable

This word is used for something or someone that can adjust easily to new conditions or environments. It often has a positive connotation.

  • In a rapidly changing market, companies must be adaptable.
  • She is very adaptable and can thrive in any kind of work environment.
impressionable

Use this word to describe someone who is easily influenced by others, often because they are young or inexperienced. It usually carries a negative or neutral connotation.

  • Teenagers are often impressionable and can be swayed by their peers.
  • The marketing campaign targeted impressionable young children.
pliant

This term is often used to describe something that is easily bent or flexible. It can also refer to a person who is easily influenced or controlled, and this can have a negative connotation.

  • The leather is soft and pliant.
  • He has a pliant nature, always agreeing with whatever is suggested.

Examples of usage

  • She had a malleable personality and often changed her opinions to fit in with others.
  • The cult leader preyed on vulnerable individuals with malleable minds.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'malleable'

The word 'malleable' comes from the Latin word 'malleabilis', meaning 'capable of being hammered or shaped with a hammer'. The concept of malleability has been important throughout history, particularly in metalworking and sculpting. The term has since been extended to describe the ability to be easily influenced or changed.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,491, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.