Elasticity

/ɪˌlæˈstɪsəti/ noun

Definition

The ability of something to return to its original shape or size after being stretched or pressed.

Etymology

From 'elastic' plus the noun-forming suffix '-ity', borrowed through French from Greek roots. It keeps the idea of being able to be driven out of shape and then recover.

Kelly Says

Elasticity is a quiet superpower of materials—and even of ideas and markets. In economics, elasticity measures how 'stretchy' behavior is when prices or incomes change.

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