Elastic

/ɪˈlæstɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a rubber band or a piece of elastic material.
I used an elastic to hold the papers together.
the quality of being able to adapt or stretch.
The elastic of the fabric allows it to fit various body types comfortably.
adjective
capable of resuming its normal shape after being stretched or compressed.
The elastic material of the waistband allows for comfort and flexibility.
able to stretch or be bent easily without breaking.
The elastic band can be stretched several times without losing its shape.
able to recover quickly from difficult conditions.
The economy has shown an elastic response to the recent changes in policy.

Etymology

From late Latin 'elasticus', meaning 'able to spring back.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

elastic limit:
The maximum extent to which a solid can be stretched without permanently altering its shape.
elastic demand:
A situation in economics where the demand for a good changes significantly with price changes.
elastic collision:
A collision in which kinetic energy is conserved.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

In context of someone's ability to adapt to situations.
She's really elastic with her schedules; she can accommodate anything.
Describing a person as flexible in thinking or approach.
You need to be more elastic if you want to succeed in this fast-paced job.