I. i-ˈlas-tik adjective
Etymology: New Latin elasticus, from Late Greek elastos ductile, beaten, from Greek elaunein to drive, beat out; probably akin to Greek ēlythe he went, Old Irish luid
Date: 1674
1.
a. of a solid : capable of recovering size and shape after deformation
b. : relating to or being a collision between particles in which the total kinetic energy of the particles remains unchanged
2. : capable of recovering quickly especially from depression or disappointment
my elastic spirits revived — Wilkie Collins
3. : capable of being easily stretched or expanded and resuming former shape : flexible
an elastic bandage
4.
a. : capable of ready change or easy expansion or contraction : not rigid or constricted
an elastic concept
b. : receptive to new ideas : adaptable
an elastic mind
• elas·ti·cal·ly -ti-k(ə-)lē adverb
Synonyms:
elastic , resilient , springy , flexible , supple mean able to endure strain without being permanently injured. elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching
an elastic waistband
resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed
a resilient innersole
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
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
supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury
supple leather
II. noun
Date: 1847
1.
a. : easily stretched rubber usually prepared in cords, strings, or bands
b. : rubber band
2.
a. : an elastic fabric usually made of yarns containing rubber
b. : something made from this fabric