Flexibility
flek-suh-BIL-uh-tee
/ˌflɛksəˈbɪləti/
The capacity of muscles and connective tissues to lengthen passively through a range of motion.
Flexibility focuses primarily on muscle length, whereas mobility incorporates active joint control throughout that range.
The story behind the word. Originates from Latin 'flectere', meaning 'to bend'. Joined with the suffix '-ibilis' (ability to), it evolved in Middle English into the word describing the physiological capacity to bend without breaking.
Word relationships
- suppleness: Suppleness implies soft, fluid adaptability along with length, whereas flexibility specifically measures tissue elongation.
- stiffness: Stiffness denotes resistance to bending or stretching.
- rigidity: Rigidity describes an unbending, inelastic state.
Commonly confused with
- Mobility: Flexibility is passive length in muscles; mobility is active control over a joint's range of motion.
Word family
- flexible (adjective): Capable of bending easily without breaking.
- flex (verb): To bend or contract a muscle.
Collocations
- improve flexibility
- muscle flexibility
- gain flexibility
- lacking flexibility
Idioms & expressions
- flexibility of mind
Example sentences
- "Regular stretching improves muscle flexibility and reduces feelings of stiffness." General fitness
- "Her natural flexibility made high kicks look effortless during the performance." Dance pedagogy
Memory hook
FLEX-ibility allows you to FLEX your limbs into deep stretches without snapping. Bend without breaking.
When not to use
Do not confuse flexibility with active joint control or bone structure.
Fun facts
- Flexibility drops rapidly when body temperature is low; warm muscles can stretch up to 20% longer than cold ones.
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