flexibility

American  

[flek-suh-bil-i-tee] / ˌflɛk səˈbɪl ɪ ti /

noun

1. the ability to bend easily or without breaking.

   The shoe soles are made from elastic materials to provide perfect flexibility.

2. the quality of being easily adapted or of offering many different options.

   This blogging platform is becoming more and more popular because of its flexibility, power, and simplicity.

3. the ability and willingness to adjust one’s thinking or behavior.

   Being a resilient parent is all about flexibility.

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Other Word Forms

• hyperflexibility noun
• nonflexibility noun
• unflexibility noun

Etymology

Origin of flexibility

First recorded in 1610–20; from Latin flexibilitāt-, stem of flexibilitās, equivalent to flexibili(s) “pliant, easily bent” + -tās -ty ² ( def. ); flexible ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does flexibility compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• adaptability vs. flexibility

Example Sentences

The ATP said this was done "to create more scheduling flexibility".

From Barron's

Deputy Rob Ward said the benefit of the system was that it was "direct to parents" which gave "flexibility".

From BBC

Industry experts are discussing how private funds can meet liquidity needs for retirement plans, with evergreen funds suggested for their flexibility.

From Barron's

“Combined with our pending acquisition of Celestial AI, we will be well positioned to deliver customers the performance, flexibility, and architectural choice they need as AI systems grow in size and complexity,” Murphy added.

From Barron's

These 'flexibilities' were extended in April, following heavy lobbying by some manufacturers, while the fines for failing to comply were reduced.

From BBC

Related Words

• resilience