Flexible Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈflɛksɪbəl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A characteristic of something that is capable of bending, stretching, or adapting to change without breaking or becoming rigid; able to yield or be altered without breaking or cracking.

Examples

• The new employee was praised for his flexible working schedule.
• The flexible battery allowed it to be bent around the phone’s curved body.

Synonyms

• Adaptable
• Pliable
• Yielding

Antonyms

• Rigid
• Stiff
• Unyielding

Additional Information

Flexible materials are often used in design and engineering to create products that can withstand stress and changes in shape or size. Flexible thinking is also important in many professions, as it allows individuals to adapt to new information and challenges.

In biology, flexible joints and muscles allow living organisms to move and function. Flexible is often used as a quality to describe artistic and creative endeavors, such as flexible dance or flexible photography techniques.

Etymology

The word ‘Flexible’ comes from the Latin ‘flexibilis’, meaning ‘bendable’ or ‘able to be shaped’. It has been used in English since the 15th century.

Usage Notes

When describing a material or object, ‘Flexible’ is often used to emphasize its ability to bend, stretch, or change shape without breaking. In contrast, when used to describe a person or their thinking, ‘Flexible’ refers to their ability to adapt, compromise, or change their perspective.

Cultural References

‘Flexible’ has been used as a character trait in various works of literature, such as ‘The Flexible Tenant’ by Sophie Kinsella.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

‘Flexible Friend’ is a common idiomatic expression used to describe a person who is able to adapt to different situations and people.

Related Words or Phrases

• Adaptable
• Pliability
• Yielding
• Resilience

Collocations

• Flexible schedule
• Flexible thinking
• Flexible design
• Flexible materials

Frequency of Use

‘Flexible’ is a relatively common word in modern language, with a frequency of use equivalent to a 3-letter word.

Common Misspellings

• Flexable
• Flexiblely
• Fleixible