Synonyms of elastic

elastic

adjective

i-ˈla-stik 

1

as in flexible

able to revert to original size and shape after being stretched, squeezed, or twisted

elastic rubber bands

Synonyms & Similar Words

• flexible
• stretch
• plastic
• stretchy
• resilient
• stretchable
• rubbery
• rubberlike
• supple
• springy
• bouncy
• whippy
• ductile
• adaptable
• pliable
• pliant
• malleable
• moldable
• limber
• kneadable
• willowy
• lithe
• lissome
• lithesome

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• inelastic
• rigid
• stiff
• inflexible
• solid
• nonelastic
• compact
• hard
• firm
• unyielding
• short
• brittle
• friable
• crisp
• flaky
• crumbly

2

as in adjustable

capable of being readily changed

when vacationing, we generally have very elastic daily sightseeing plans

Synonyms & Similar Words

• adjustable
• flexible
• adaptable
• changing
• pliable
• alterable
• variable
• malleable
• varying
• changeable
• modifiable
• fluid
• versatile
• unstable
• labile
• fluctuating
• unsteady
• inconstant

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• inelastic
• fixed
• invariable
• immutable
• inflexible
• unchangeable
• unalterable
• established
• uniform
• constant
• set
• stable
• steady
• unadaptable
• ramrod
• nonmalleable
• unchanging
• unbudgeable
• unvarying

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective elastic contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of elastic are flexible, resilient, springy, and supple. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When could flexible be used to replace elastic?

The meanings of flexible and elastic largely overlap; however, flexible applies to something which may or may not be resilient or elastic but which can be bent or folded without breaking.

flexible plastic tubing

When might resilient be a better fit than elastic?

Although the words resilient and elastic have much in common, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

In what contexts can springy take the place of elastic?

The words springy and elastic can be used in similar contexts, but springy stresses both the ease with which something yields to pressure and the quickness of its return to original shape.

the cake is done when the top is springy

When can supple be used instead of elastic?

The words supple and elastic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of elastic

The Adidas Originals Samba Jane is a low-profile hybrid style with a mary jane strap, while the Adidas Originals Tokyo Mary Jane features an ultra-slim sole and an elastic closure. —Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 19 May 2026

Thanks to four layers of latex and a 3750D elastic outer fabric, the inner hose is protected from pesky things like thorns and sharp corners. —Quincy Bulin, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 May 2026

Perfect for a dressier travel look, they’re made of a nylon-spandex blend that doesn’t restrict movement, and their elastic waistband keeps them in place without having to wear a belt through airport security. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 17 May 2026

How to Wash Sports Bras The elastic and supportive structure of sports bras can be damaged by improper washing, leading to a loss of shape and reduced support. —Katie Cloyd, Martha Stewart, 15 May 2026