Suppling: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Derived from the Old French word 'souple', meaning flexible or pliable.
• The term has its roots in Latin 'supplex', which relates to bending or kneeling, indicating flexibility.
• It originally described materials or fabrics that could bend and move without becoming damaged.

Biology

• In biology, suppleness is key for certain animals, allowing them to adapt to different environments and swaying movements.
• Certain physical activities, like yoga and gymnastics, emphasize maintaining suppleness to prevent injuries.
• Human muscles and tissues can be trained to become more supple through stretching and regular exercise.

Literature

• In poetry, supple imagery often symbolizes gracefulness and adaptability, much like the flow of words in a flowing poem.
• Notable authors like Pablo Neruda have used the concept of suppleness metaphorically to describe love and relationships.
• Juvenile literature often portrays supple characters who can twist and turn their way out of tight situations, highlighting creativity.

Sports

• In sports, supple athletes often perform better due to their improved flexibility and range of motion.
• Certain sports, such as dance and martial arts, specifically require high levels of suppleness for optimal performance.
• Training regimens often include stretching exercises aimed at enhancing physical suppleness.