noun
spandex
SPAN-dehks
Spandex (noun) means a stretchy synthetic fabric prized for its elasticity. Example: “The cyclists wore tight spandex shorts for the race.”
noun
1
A stretchy synthetic fabric prized for its elasticity.
"The cyclists wore tight spandex shorts for the race."
"Superhero costumes are almost always made of spandex."
How to use spandex
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA super-stretchy fabric used in sportswear and tight-fitting clothing.
UK vs US
In the UK this fabric is often called "Lycra" (a brand name used generically); "spandex" is the more common US term.
Common pairings
spandex leggings
spandex shorts
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Word forms
- Plural
- spandexes
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The cyclists wore tight _____ shorts for the race.
Etymology
Coined as a near-anagram of the word "expands," reflecting the fabric's stretchiness.
Synonyms
View more →
elastane
lycra
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “spandex” mean?
The word “spandex” means a stretchy synthetic fabric prized for its elasticity. In plain terms, a super-stretchy fabric used in sportswear and tight-fitting clothing.
How do you pronounce “spandex”?
“Spandex” is pronounced SPAN-dehks (/ˈspændɛks/ in IPA).
How do you use “spandex” in a sentence?
Here is “spandex” used in a sentence: “The cyclists wore tight spandex shorts for the race.”
What is another word for “spandex”?
Words with a similar meaning to “spandex” include elastane and lycra.
What part of speech is “spandex”?
“Spandex” is a noun.
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