Elastic
ɪˈlæstɪk
Definitions
2 meaningsHaving the ability to return to its original shape or size after being stretched, compressed, or otherwise deformed.
ɪˈlæstɪk
Capable of returning to original shape after being stretched or compressed; flexible.
The elastic waistband on my skirt feels very comfortable.
💡 Simply: Imagine stretching a rubber band! If it goes back to its original shape, it's elastic. It's like when you're flexible and can easily adapt to changes.
👶 For kids: Something elastic can stretch and go back to its old shape, like a rubber band.
More Examples
The material is elastic enough to be stretched over the frame.
An elastic material will return to its original form after being stretched.
How It's Used
"Rubber is an elastic material."
"The waistband of the pants is elastic."
"Her mind was quick and elastic."
A material made from rubber or a synthetic polymer that is flexible and can return to its original shape after being stretched.
ɪˈlæstɪk
A woven, rubberized, or plastic material that stretches and returns to its original shape.
The seamstress used elastic to make the cuffs of the sleeves fit better.
💡 Simply: The stretchy stuff in your clothes that helps them fit, like the band in your underwear. That's elastic!
👶 For kids: The stretchy stuff that helps your clothes fit.
More Examples
She bought a roll of elastic for her sewing project.
The athletic shorts had elastic around the waist for a secure fit.
How It's Used
"She used elastic to sew the waistband of the skirt."
"The company manufactures elastic for the clothing industry."
Idioms & expressions
elastic limit
The maximum extent to which a solid may be stretched without permanently altering its size or shape.
"The material exceeded its elastic limit and broke."
From French élastique, from Greek elastikos ('capable of being driven'), from elaunein ('to drive, beat'). The term was initially used in physics to describe materials exhibiting elasticity, and later adopted to describe objects or qualities that can be stretched or expanded and then return to their original shape.
Historically used in physics and engineering, the term 'elastic' has existed since the early 19th century, evolving to describe not only physical properties but also figurative flexibility or adaptability.
Memory tip
Think of a rubber band – it stretches and then goes back to its original form. That's elastic!
Word Origin
"capable of being driven, capable of being thrown"