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Elastic vs Supple - What's the difference?

elastic | supple | Synonyms |

Elastic is a synonym of supple.


As adjectives the difference between elastic and supple

is that elastic is capable of stretching; particularly, capable of stretching so as to return to an original shape or size when force is released while supple is pliant, flexible, easy to bend.

As a noun elastic

is (uncountable) an elastic material used in clothing, particularly in waistbands and cuffs.

As a verb supple is

to make or become supple.

elastic

English

Alternative forms

* elastick (obsolete)

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • Capable of stretching; particularly, capable of stretching so as to return to an original shape or size when force is released.
    • The rope is somewhat elastic , so expect it to give when you pull on it.
  • Made of elastic.
    • elastic band
  • Of clothing, elasticated.
  • (economics) Sensitive to changes in price.
    • Demand for entertainment is more elastic than demand for energy.
  • springy; bouncy; vivacious
  • * 1900 , , The House Behind the Cedars , Chapter I,
    • He could see that she was tastefully, though not richly, dressed, and that she walked with an elastic step that revealed a light heart and the vigor of perfect health. Her face, of course, he could not analyze, since he had caught only the one brief but convincing glimpse of it.
  • Able to return quickly to a former state or condition, after being depressed or overtaxed; having power to recover easily from shocks and trials.
    • elastic''' spirits; an '''elastic constitution

    Synonyms

    * stretchy * stretchable

    Related terms

    * elasticated * elasticated * elastic band * inelastic * elasticity

    Noun

  • (uncountable) An elastic material used in clothing, particularly in waistbands and cuffs.
    • Running shorts use elastic to eliminate the need for a belt.
  • (countable) An elastic band.

    • External links

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    Anagrams

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    supple

    English

    Adjective

    (er)
  • pliant, flexible, easy to bend
  • lithe and agile when moving and bending
    • supple''' joints; '''supple fingers
  • compliant; yielding to the will of others
    • a supple horse
  • * John Locke
    • If punishment makes not the will supple , it hardens the offender.

    Verb

  • To make or become supple.
  • * Dryden
    • The stones suppled into softness as they fell.
  • * Spenser
    • The flesh therewith she suppled and did steep.
  • To make compliant, submissive, or obedient.
  • * John Locke
    • a mother persisting till she had bent her daughter's mind and suppled her will
  • * Barrow
    • They should supple our stiff willfulness.