flexible
/ˈflɛksɪb(ə)l
/adjective
1Capable of bending easily without breaking: flexible rubber seals...
- Do this when the branches are about 6in long and flexible enough to bend at right angles.
- This means that flexible pipe can be bent to a much smaller radius of curvature than rigid pipe without exceeding its elastic limit.
- The body of a sea-lion is so flexible that it can bend over backwards and just about touch its nose to the tips of its back flippers.
Synonyms
pliable, supple, easily bent, bendable, pliant, malleable, mouldable, stretchable, workable, limber, ductile, tensile, plastic;
elastic, whippy, springy, resilient
informal bendy
rare flexile
1.1Able to be easily modified to respond to altered circumstances: small businesses which are dependent on flexible working hours...
- The report argued that management practices should be more flexible to allow laboratories to be more responsive to market forces.
- I think the notions of international comity are sufficiently flexible to allow a development in that direction.
- The waitresses said another reason they are happy at Hooters is that their work schedules are very flexible.
Synonyms
adaptable, adjustable, open-ended, open, open to change, changeable, variable, fluid, versatile
1.2(Of a person) ready and able to change so as to adapt to different circumstances: you can save money if you’re flexible about where your room is located...
- He was flexible in changing his plans and beginning to teach a crowd which had gathered.
- This is not a big team like some of our competitors, but we are flexible, we can change direction and we take decisions quickly.
- They are flexible, hard working, extremely adaptable and always happy to help each other.
Synonyms
accommodating, adaptable, amenable, biddable, willing to compromise, cooperative, tolerant, forgiving, long-suffering, easy-going
Origin
Late Middle English: from Old French, or from Latin flexibilis, from flectere 'to bend'.