n.
Pronunciation: ' plas-tik
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin plasticus of molding, from Greek plastikos, from plassein to mold, form
Date: 1632
1 : FORMATIVE , CREATIVE < plastic forces in nature>
2 a : capable of being molded or modeled < plastic clay> b : capable of adapting to varying conditions : PLIABLE <ecologically plastic animals>
3 : SCULPTURAL
4 : made or consisting of a plastic
5 : capable of being deformed continuously and permanently in any direction without rupture
6 : of, relating to, or involving plastic surgery
7 : having a quality suggestive of mass-produced plastic goods especially : ARTIFICIAL 4 < plastic smiles>
8 : relating to, characterized by, or exhibiting neural plasticity
synonyms PLASTIC , PLIABLE , PLIANT , DUCTILE , MALLEABLE , ADAPTABLE mean susceptible of being modified in form or nature. PLASTIC applies to substances soft enough to be molded yet capable of hardening into the desired fixed form < plastic materials allow the sculptor greater freedom>. PLIABLE suggests something easily bent, folded, twisted, or manipulated < pliable rubber tubing>. PLIANT may stress flexibility and sometimes connote springiness <an athletic shoe with a pliant sole>. DUCTILE applies to what can be drawn out or extended with ease < ductile metals such as copper>. MALLEABLE applies to what may be pressed or beaten into shape <the malleable properties of gold>. ADAPTABLE implies the capability of being easily modified to suit other conditions, needs, or uses <computer hardware that is adaptable >.