Elastic

/ɪˈlæstɪk/ adjective

Definition

Able to stretch and then return to its original shape.

Etymology

From French 'élastique', from Greek 'elastos' meaning 'ductile, flexible', from 'elaunein' meaning 'to drive, beat'. The idea is of something that can be driven or forced out of shape and then spring back.

Kelly Says

Elasticity is what makes rubber bands and waistbands so forgiving—they store energy when stretched, then release it. In economics, 'elastic' demand stretches too: it changes a lot when prices change.

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