elastic
ih-LAS-tik
/ɪˈlæstɪk/
Able to resume its normal shape after being stretched or compressed; flexible and adaptable.
Specifically denotes active recoil—returning precisely to original dimensions once mechanical stress is removed.
The story behind the word. Coined in scientific Latin from Greek 'elastikos' ('driving or propelling'), derived from 'elaunein' ('to beat out metal'). Late 17th-century physicists used it to describe gases springiness, and by the 19th century, rubberized flexible textile cords inherited the name.
Word relationships
- stretchable: Stretchable means able to expand, while elastic highlights the ability to snap back after stretching.
- resilient: Resilient emphasizes recovering strength or form after deformation.
- inelastic: Inelastic materials do not stretch or recover original shape under stress.
- rigid: Rigid materials break rather than deform or stretch.
Commonly confused with
- plastic: Plastic materials deform permanently when stretched; elastic materials snap back.
Word family
- elasticity (noun): The ability of an object or material to resume its normal shape after being stretched.
Collocations
- elastic waistband
- elastic band
- elastic memory
- price elastic
Idioms & expressions
- elastic limits
Example sentences
- "The waistband contains an elastic strip to ensure a comfortable, snug fit for runners of all sizes." Activewear garment design
- "Consumer demand for luxury fashion is notoriously elastic when prices fluctuate." Economic commentary
Memory hook
ELASTIC bands LAST through endless stretching because they bounce back. Stretches and snaps back.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'pliable', which means easy to bend, whereas 'elastic' specifically snaps back.
Fun facts
- In physics, glass is actually more perfectly elastic than rubber, because within its tiny deformation range, it returns to original shape with zero energy loss!
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