elasticity
ih-las-TIHS-ih-tee
Elasticity (noun) means the ability of a material to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. Example: “The elasticity of the rubber sole helps absorb shock while running.”
noun
1
The ability of a material to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed.
"The elasticity of the rubber sole helps absorb shock while running."
2
In economics, a measure of how much demand or supply changes in response to a change in price or another factor.
"The elasticity of demand for luxury goods is usually high — people cut back quickly when prices rise."
How to use elasticity
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHow stretchy something is, or in economics, how sensitive demand or supply is to price changes.
Common pairings
price elasticity
elasticity of demand
material elasticity
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Word forms
- Plural
- elasticities
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of the rubber sole helps absorb shock while running.
Etymology
Formed from elastic plus the noun-forming suffix -ity.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
inelasticity
Related words
Rhymes for elasticity
See all rhymes for elasticity →Frequently asked questions
What does “elasticity” mean?
The word “elasticity” means the ability of a material to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. In plain terms, how stretchy something is, or in economics, how sensitive demand or supply is to price changes.
How do you pronounce “elasticity”?
“Elasticity” is pronounced ih-las-TIHS-ih-tee (/ɪ.læsˈtɪs.ɪ.ti/ in IPA).
How do you use “elasticity” in a sentence?
Here is “elasticity” used in a sentence: “The elasticity of the rubber sole helps absorb shock while running.”
What part of speech is “elasticity”?
“Elasticity” is a noun.
Is “elasticity” a common word?
“Elasticity” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
How many meanings does “elasticity” have?
“Elasticity” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the ability of a material to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed.
