Suppleness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คธ
suppleness
[หsสplnษs ]
Definitions
physical attribute
The quality or state of being supple; flexibility.
Synonyms
elasticity, flexibility, limberness, pliancy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| suppleness |
Used when referring to the ability of something to move and bend smoothly without breaking. Often used to describe materials like leather or someone's muscles.
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| flexibility |
Often used in a broader context, this word can refer to both physical and metaphorical situations, such as the ability to adapt easily to change or the physical ability to bend without breaking. It can be used formally or informally.
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| limberness |
Usually refers specifically to physical bodies, especially when describing athletes, dancers, or people involved in physical training. It suggests an ability to move easily and gracefully.
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| pliancy |
This word often has a metaphorical usage in addition to its physical meaning. It can describe the ease with which something can be bent or shaped, as well as a person's willingness to be easily influenced or controlled. The latter use has a negative connotation.
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| elasticity |
This term is commonly used in scientific and economic contexts to describe the ability of something to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. It's often used for physical materials like rubber, as well as in economic theories.
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Examples of usage
- He demonstrated great suppleness in his yoga practice.
- The suppleness of her muscles allowed her to excel in gymnastics.
- Regular stretching exercises can help improve suppleness.
- The suppleness of the leather made it ideal for making wallets.
- The suppleness of a dancer's body is truly impressive.
metaphorical usage
Mental or emotional flexibility; the ability to adapt or change easily.
Synonyms
adaptability, nimbleness, open-mindedness, versatility.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| suppleness |
Refers to physical flexibility and grace, often used in context of body movement or materials.
|
| adaptability |
Describes the ability to adjust to new conditions or changes, typically used in a broader, often non-physical context such as work, environment, or lifestyle.
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| versatility |
Relates to the ability to adapt or be useful in many different functions and activities, often used to describe people or tools with multiple capabilities.
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| open-mindedness |
Denotes a willingness to consider new ideas and opinions, commonly used in discussions about attitudes and perspectives.
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| nimbleness |
Indicates quick and light movement, often used to describe both physical agility and mental sharpness.
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Examples of usage
- The CEO's suppleness in handling difficult situations impressed the board.
- Having suppleness in your thinking can lead to more innovative solutions.
- Embracing suppleness in relationships can lead to better understanding and communication.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, suppleness is often referred to in terms of muscle and joint flexibility, important for movement and injury prevention.
- Yoga practices emphasize suppleness, allowing practitioners to enhance their physical and mental balance.
- Materials, such as rubber, are studied for their suppleness, impacting their use in various industrial applications.
Art
- In dance, suppleness is essential for movements that require fluidity and grace, enabling performers to express emotions.
- Artists often capture the concept of suppleness in sculpture, depicting figures that appear to bend and flow organically.
- The art of calligraphy also demands suppleness from the hand, which allows for smooth and elegant strokes.
Psychology
- Emotional suppleness refers to a person's adaptability in facing stress and adapting to change, which can enhance overall well-being.
- Psychological flexibility, a concept in therapy, is linked to mental suppleness and helps individuals cope with life challenges.
- The ability to be both firm and adaptable is often seen as a strength in effective leadership and personal relationships.
Sports
- In sports like gymnastics, suppleness is crucial to achieving difficult movements and preventing injuries.
- Athletes often engage in flexibility training to enhance their suppleness, allowing for greater performance.
- Sports science studies how suppleness affects an athleteโs overall performance and recovery.
Origin of 'suppleness'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'supplex' which means 'to bend down or yield'.
- It entered the English language around the 15th century, reflecting physical flexibility and grace.
- The prefix 'sup-' conveys the sense of 'under', while '-ness' denotes a state of being.
The word 'suppleness' originated from the Old French word 'souple', meaning 'flexible' or 'pliant'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. The concept of suppleness has been valued throughout history, with cultures recognizing the importance of flexibility in both physical and mental aspects. The word has evolved to represent not just physical agility, but also adaptability and openness to change.
See also: supplement.