elas·tic
i-ˈla-stik 
1
a
of a solid
: capable of recovering size and shape after deformation
b
: relating to or being a collision between particles in which the total kinetic energy of the particles remains unchanged
2
: capable of recovering quickly especially from depression or disappointment
my elastic spirits revived—
Wilkie Collins
Wilkie Collins3
: capable of being easily stretched or expanded and resuming former shape : flexible
an elastic bandage
4
a
: capable of ready change or easy expansion or contraction : not rigid or constricted
an elastic concept
b
: receptive to new ideas : adaptable
an elastic mind
1
a
: easily stretched rubber usually prepared in cords, strings, or bands
b
2
a
: an elastic fabric usually made of yarns containing rubber
b
: something made from this fabric
Examples of elastic in a Sentence
Adjective
when vacationing, we generally have very elastic daily sightseeing plans
Noun
She wrapped an elastic around the cards.
Recent Examples on the Web
Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 29 Oct. 2025
The sleeve stays in place with elastic velcro straps.
—Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2025
Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 1 Oct. 2025
The flexi-fit invisi drawstring, a clear, three-strand elastic sewn into the nape, allows easy tightening or loosening.
—Noel Cymone Walker, StyleCaster, 29 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for elastic
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Adjective
Each cell uses elastic beams that can snap from one state to another and remain there without continuous force.
—Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 29 Oct. 2025
The sleeve stays in place with elastic velcro straps.
—Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2025
Noun
Unlike most bags with adjustable straps that leave one long piece dangling, this pack uses a thin piece of elastic that evens out the loop for a more streamlined appearance.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 1 Oct. 2025
The flexi-fit invisi drawstring, a clear, three-strand elastic sewn into the nape, allows easy tightening or loosening.
—Noel Cymone Walker, StyleCaster, 29 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for elastic
Cite this Entry
“Elastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elastic. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
elastic
1 of 2 adjective
elas·tic
i-ˈlas-tik
1
a
: capable of returning to original shape or size after being stretched, pressed, or squeezed together
sponges are elastic
b
: capable of indefinite expansion
gases are elastic substances
2
: able to recover quickly especially from sadness or disappointment
youthful, elastic spirit
3
: capable of being changed : flexible
an elastic plan
elasticity
noun
i-ˌlas-ˈtis-ət-ē
ˌē-ˌlas-
elastic
2 of 2 noun1
2
a
: an elastic fabric usually made of yarns containing rubber
b
: something made from elastic fabric
Medical Definition
elastic
1 of 2 adjective
elas·tic
i-ˈlas-tik
1
a
of a solid
: capable of recovering size and shape after deformation
b
of a liquid
: capable of resisting compression
c
of a gas
: capable of indefinite expansion
2
: capable of being easily stretched or expanded and resuming former shape
elastic
2 of 2 noun1
a
: easily stretched rubber usually prepared in cords, strings, or bands
b
: a band of elastic used especially in orthodontics
also
: one placed around a tooth at the gumline in effecting its nonsurgical removal
2
a
: an elastic fabric usually made of yarns containing rubber
b
: something made from this fabric
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