elastic Definition
- 1able to resume its normal shape spontaneously after being stretched or compressed
- 2able to adapt or be modified according to changing circumstances or needs
Using elastic: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "elastic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The waistband of my pants is made of elastic material.
Example
The demand for the product is elastic, meaning that it changes significantly with even small changes in price.
Example
The company's policies are elastic enough to accommodate different work styles.
elastic Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with elastic
the maximum extent to which a solid material may be stretched without permanent alteration of size or shape
Example
The elastic limit of the rubber band was exceeded, causing it to snap.
a statement in the US Constitution granting Congress the power to pass all laws necessary and proper for carrying out the enumerated list of powers
Example
The Supreme Court has interpreted the elastic clause broadly, allowing Congress to exercise a wide range of powers beyond those explicitly listed.
a theory explaining how energy is released during an earthquake as stored energy that is suddenly released when two tectonic plates slip past each other
Example
The elastic rebound theory explains why earthquakes occur along fault lines.
Origins of elastic
from French 'élastique', from Greek 'elastos', meaning 'ductile'
Summary: elastic in Brief
The term 'elastic' [ɪˈlæstɪk] describes something that can return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed, or that can adapt to changing circumstances. Examples include elastic waistbands and elastic demand. The phrase 'elastic limit' refers to the maximum amount something can be stretched before it is permanently altered, while the 'elastic clause' is a statement in the US Constitution granting Congress broad powers. 'Elastic' is a formal term for 'flexible' or 'adaptable.'
