Supple Meaning and Definition
Supple
Pronunciation
/ˈsɒpl/
Part of Speech
Descriptive word, adjective
Definition
A supple is a soft and flexible material, often used to describe objects that have a smooth and elastic texture, capable of bending or stretching without breaking.
Examples
1. “The supple leather wallet held its shape well, even after months of use.”
2. “Supple branches helped the newly planted tree to adapt to the changing weather conditions.”
Synonyms
1. Flexible
2. Soft
3. Pliable
4. Resilient
Antonyms
1. Rigid
2. Stiff
3. Hardy
Additional Information
Supple objects are often made from materials like animal hides, flexible metals, or rubber-like polymers, and are frequently used in items like shoes, handbags, or sports equipment. The term “supple” can also be used to describe human bodies that maintain flexibility and agility throughout life, often a result of regular physical exercise or maintenance.
In ancient Greece, the term “supple” referred to a type of fabric or material that was renowned for its smoothness and durability. In modern times, the term has been adopted to describe various materials and their applications across different industries.
Supple materials have several benefits, such as improved durability, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal. However, they can also be more expensive than their rigid counterparts and require specific care to maintain their shape and functionality.
The concept of supple has also found its way into phrases like “supple fingers,” used to describe hands that can manipulate objects with ease and dexterity.
Etymology
The term “supple” originates from the Latin word “supplere,” meaning “to fill” or “to furnish.” This Latin term evolved into Old French as “souple,” before finally arriving in Middle English as “supple.” The word’s evolution is closely tied to its connection with flexible and adaptable materials and concepts.
Usage Notes
The word “supple” has broad applications in both formal and informal settings. When describing materials, it is often used to highlight their ability to bend or flex without breaking. In human contexts, it refers to physical characteristics that promote agility and flexibility.
When using the word in general conversation, consider the type of material being referred to or the context of the discussion. You can enhance the word’s meaning with adverbs like “extremely” or “remarkably” to stress the degree of flexibility or adaptability.
Cultural References
The words “supple” and its variations can be found in multiple cultures and historical periods. For instance, the Greeks admired supple fabrics for their beauty and quality. Similarly, literature like Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” references the character of a “supple” person, demonstrating the term’s utility in describing both materials and human qualities.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “With supple fingers,…” – This phrase highlights hands that are dexterous and able to manipulate objects with ease.
Collocations
1. Supple leather
2. Supple fabric
3. Supple limbs
Frequency of Use
The word “supple” is marginally less common in everyday language due to its connotation with specific materials or contexts. However, its growing adoption in modern industries and literature has led to an increase in its usage. Increased understanding of human flexibility and adaptability has led to a slight increase in its usage in literature and more contemporary research.
Common Misspellings
1. Sipple
2. Suplly
3. Sufle