Nonelastic: meaning, definitions and examples

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nonelastic

 

[ nɒnɪˈlæstɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

material properties

Nonelastic refers to materials that do not exhibit elasticity, meaning they do not return to their original shape or size after being deformed. In other words, once these materials are stretched or compressed, they remain in that altered state. This characteristic can significantly affect how the material is used in various applications, particularly in construction and manufacturing. Nonelastic materials are often criticized for their inability to absorb energy or withstand stress, making them less suitable in scenarios that require flexibility.

Synonyms

inflexible, rigid, stiff

Examples of usage

  • This material is nonelastic, causing it to crack easily under pressure.
  • Nonelastic fibers are often used in specific construction scenarios.
  • Rubber is elastic, whereas this plastic is nonelastic.
  • The nonelastic nature of the metal led to its breakage.
  • In high-stress environments, nonelastic materials can fail unexpectedly.

Translations

Translations of the word "nonelastic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não elástico

🇮🇳 गैर लचीला

🇩🇪 nicht elastisch

🇮🇩 tidak elastis

🇺🇦 нелінійний

🇵🇱 nieelastyczny

🇯🇵 非弾性

🇫🇷 non élastique

🇪🇸 no elástico

🇹🇷 esnek olmayan

🇰🇷 비탄력적인

🇸🇦 غير مرن

🇨🇿 neelastický

🇸🇰 neelastický

🇨🇳 非弹性

🇸🇮 neelastičen

🇮🇸 ekki teygjanlegt

🇰🇿 серпімді емес

🇬🇪 არელასტიური

🇦🇿 elastik olmayan

🇲🇽 no elástico

Word origin

The term 'nonelastic' is derived from the prefix 'non-', which implies absence or negation, combined with the word 'elastic'. The word 'elastic' itself comes from the Greek word 'elastikos', meaning 'able to recover' or 'flexible', and the Latin word 'elasticus', which carries a similar meaning. Elastic materials were studied extensively in the 18th century, particularly in the field of physics. As understanding evolved, the need for a term to describe materials that did not conform to elastic behavior arose. The use of 'nonelastic' began to be noted in technical literature in the 20th century as more sophisticated materials were developed, allowing engineers and scientists to classify materials based on their mechanical properties. This classification became crucial in industries ranging from textiles to construction, where material performance under stress is vital. Over time, the scope of nonelastic materials has broadened to include various synthetic and natural substances that lack the ability to return to their original shape after deformation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,800, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.