flexible

adjective

flex·​i·​ble ˈflek-sə-bəl How to pronounce flexible (audio)
1
: capable of being flexed : pliant
flexible branches swaying in the breeze
2
: yielding to influence : tractable
a flexible person without strong convictions
3
: characterized by a ready capability to adapt to new, different, or changing requirements
a flexible foreign policy
a flexible schedule
flexibility noun
flexibly adverb
Choose the Right Synonym for flexible

elastic, resilient, springy, flexible, supple mean able to endure strain without being permanently injured.

elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

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

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

supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

Examples of flexible in a Sentence

flexible branches swaying in the breeze a material that is both strong and flexible She's been doing exercises to become stronger and more flexible. Our schedule for the weekend is very flexible. This computer program has to be flexible to meet all our needs. Whatever you want to do is fine with me. I'm flexible.
Recent Examples on the Web The study credits these negative trends to changes in flexible work options. Azure Gilman, Fortune, 25 Mar. 2024 The toggle bungee strap makes getting them on and off easy, while the flexible frame ensures a comfortable fit. Maya Polton, Parents, 24 Mar. 2024 For travelers looking to create a flexible capsule wardrobe, a pair of pants like this that are stylish but functional goes a long way. Alice Bennett, Travel + Leisure, 24 Mar. 2024 Niitsu said there are other ways to be competitive, for example by providing flexible launch schedules and being better at meeting clients' needs. Mari Yamaguchi, Quartz, 21 Mar. 2024 Despite replacing the work-hard-play-hard philosophy with flexible workplace policies, Finland remains a hotbed for successful and ingenious companies. Miika Mäkitalo, Fortune Europe, 19 Mar. 2024 On some occasions, the company has shown a more flexible sense of propriety. Rachel Monroe, The New Yorker, 18 Mar. 2024 In general, flexible electronics have potential for any application requiring interactions with soft materials, such as devices worn on or implanted within the body. IEEE Spectrum, 17 Mar. 2024 Each blossom is made of white and pink silk that sits on a green plastic vine, which is flexible enough to maneuver and bend into an archway. Stephanie Osmanski, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'flexible.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Latin flexibilis, from flexus (past participle of flectere "to cause to go in a different direction, bend, curve," of uncertain origin) + -ibilis -ible

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of flexible was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near flexible

Cite this Entry

“Flexible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flexible. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

flexible

adjective
flex·​i·​ble ˈflek-sə-bəl How to pronounce flexible (audio)
1
: capable of being bent : pliant
2
: readily changed or changing : adaptable
a flexible schedule
flexibility noun
flexibly adverb

Medical Definition

flexible

adjective
flex·​i·​ble ˈflek-sə-bəl How to pronounce flexible (audio)
: capable of being flexed : capable of being turned, bowed, or twisted without breaking
flexible bandages
a flexible fiber-optic bronchoscope
flexibility noun
plural flexibilities

More from Merriam-Webster on flexible

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