elasticity

noun

elas·​tic·​i·​ty i-ˌla-ˈsti-sə-tē How to pronounce elasticity (audio)
ˌē-ˌla-, 
-ˈti-stē
plural elasticities
Synonyms of elasticitynext
1
: the quality or state of being elastic: such as
a
: the capability of a strained body to recover its size and shape after deformation : springiness
b
: resilience sense 2
c
: the quality of being adaptable
2
: the responsiveness of a dependent economic variable to changes in influencing factors
elasticity of demand
price elasticity

Examples of elasticity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The flexible polymer, meanwhile, reinforces the structure and improves its elasticity. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 26 Aug. 2026 That palpable elasticity extended into Curry’s voice work for animation, unearthing another layer of the late actor’s otherworldly talent. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 26 Aug. 2026 Smaller collagen fragments draw moisture to the skin, supporting the appearance of firmness and elasticity. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 20 Aug. 2026 Cheap inference also creates elasticity, since agents that can afford to run continuously consume far more. — Janakiram Msv, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for elasticity

Word History

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of elasticity was in 1664

Rhymes for elasticity

See All Rhymes for elasticity

Browse Nearby Words

elastic hysteresis
elasticity
elasticized
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Elasticity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elasticity. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

elasticity

noun
elas·​tic·​i·​ty i-ˌlas-ˈtis-ət-ē, ˌē-ˌlas-, -ˈtis-tē How to pronounce elasticity (audio)
plural elasticities
: the quality or state of being elastic

More from Merriam-Webster on elasticity

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for elasticity

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about elasticity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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