ELASTIC Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'elastic' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of elastic are flexible , resilient , springy , and supple . While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching. // an elastic waistband

Q: When could 'flexible' be used to replace 'elastic'?

The meanings of flexible and elastic largely overlap; however, flexible applies to something which may or may not be resilient or elastic but which can be bent or folded without breaking. // flexible plastic tubing

Q: When might 'resilient' be a better fit than 'elastic'?

Although the words resilient and elastic have much in common, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed. // a resilient innersole

Q: In what contexts can 'springy' take the place of 'elastic'?

The words springy and elastic can be used in similar contexts, but springy stresses both the ease with which something yields to pressure and the quickness of its return to original shape. // the cake is done when the top is springy

Q: When can 'supple' be used instead of 'elastic'?

The words supple and elastic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury. // supple leather

elastic

adjective

i-ˈla-stik

Definition of elastic

as in flexible

able to revert to original size and shape after being stretched, squeezed, or twisted elastic rubber bands

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in adjustable

capable of being readily changed when vacationing, we generally have very elastic daily sightseeing plans

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective elastic contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of elastic are flexible, resilient, springy, and supple. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When could flexible be used to replace elastic?

The meanings of flexible and elastic largely overlap; however, flexible applies to something which may or may not be resilient or elastic but which can be bent or folded without breaking.

flexible plastic tubing

When might resilient be a better fit than elastic?

Although the words resilient and elastic have much in common, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

In what contexts can springy take the place of elastic?

The words springy and elastic can be used in similar contexts, but springy stresses both the ease with which something yields to pressure and the quickness of its return to original shape.

the cake is done when the top is springy

When can supple be used instead of elastic?

The words supple and elastic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of elastic Additionally, thin or fragile skin can tear or simply not hold designs as well as younger, more elastic skin. — Rachel Brown Kirkland, AJC.com, 30 July 2026 Cloud deployment, however, remains the practical choice for many advanced workloads, particularly where larger models or elastic scale are required. — Michael Wu, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 As estrogen declines, lips naturally become drier, thinner, and less elastic. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 29 July 2026 These pantaloons feature a cool capri crop and easy-to-wear elastic waistband. — Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for elastic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for elastic

Adjective

The technicians melted pellets to roll out flexible films for food packaging, like a bag for baby carrots.

— ABC News, ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026
The company also reports that its approach can reduce costs by 50 percent to 65 percent compared with conventional boatbuilding, highlighting the potential for faster and more flexible USV manufacturing.

— Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 10 Aug. 2026

Definition of flexible

Adjective

This one resembles the style Berry wore, with adjustable straps, a relaxed fit, and lightweight fabric that keeps you comfortable — even in hot and humid weather — according to a shopper in Florida.

— Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 8 Aug. 2026
To that end, nearly all are size adjustable to fit a wide range of body types.

— BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026

Definition of adjustable

Adjective

This pick stands out thanks to its non-stretch cotton fabric, which maintains its shape throughout the day.

— Jacquelyn McGilvray, PEOPLE, 29 July 2026
In any case, Mahomes has taken pre-stretch snaps under center and also had seven-on-seven passes begin with that same setup.

— Jesse Newell, New York Times, 28 July 2026

Definition of stretch

Adjective

Efficient sampling—adaptable for rivers, lakes and seas—enables extended feasibility studies for precise ecosystem protection and on-ground mitigation.

— Gamuda Contributor, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
By integrating multiple treatment functions into a single membrane architecture, the approach could provide a framework for creating more efficient and adaptable systems beyond desalination applications.

— Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 2 Aug. 2026

Definition of adaptable

Adjective

Verve Culture’s Mahjong set pairs handmade wooden tiles with a mango wood storage box that feels worlds away from the plastic versions many of us grew up with.

— Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 8 Aug. 2026
Some lawmakers who worked with Jackson have criticized him as having a temper, including once throwing a plastic water bottle on the ground in frustration while disagreeing with a female lawmaker.

— ABC News, ABC News, 8 Aug. 2026

Definition of plastic

Adjective

Pair it with stretchy slacks or capris, neutral sneakers, and a few pieces of jewelry for a simple but elevated travel look.

— Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 6 Aug. 2026
They’re designed with a stretchy elastic waistband and a wide-leg fit that won’t restrict your movements, and are machine washable for easy cleaning.

— Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 5 Aug. 2026

Definition of stretchy

Adjective

In this new work, a soft, stretchable mechanochromic material was developed.

— Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 3 July 2026
Featuring short-sleeves, a V-neck cut, smocked high waist, and wide-leg design, this soft and stretchable jumpsuit provides extreme comfort.

— Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 20 June 2026

Definition of stretchable

Browse Nearby Words

elapsing

elastic

elasticity

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“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elastic. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of elastic

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