adj. & n.
--adj.
1. able to resume its normal bulk or shape spontaneously after contraction, dilatation, or distortion.
2 springy.
3 (of a person or feelings) buoyant.
4 flexible, adaptable (elastic conscience).
5 Econ. (of demand) variable according to price.
6 Physics (of a collision) involving no decrease of kinetic energy.
--n. elastic cord or fabric, usu. woven with strips of rubber.
Phrases and idioms:
elastic band rubber band (see RUBBER(1)).
Derivatives:
elastically adv. elasticity n. elasticize v.tr. (also -ise).
Etymology: mod.L elasticus f. Gk elastikos propulsive f. elauno drive