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

However, the company may now have even greater flexibility on pricing after its acquisition of Warner Bros.

From Barron's

The lower cost of capital will allow the combined company to become more profitable as well as give it flexibility to “invest in growth and attract and retain top talent,” Costantini says.

From The Wall Street Journal

However, NordVPN’s larger footprint and broader range of specialty tools may appeal more to users who prioritize speed, flexibility and advanced privacy options.

From Salon

It is a structure that has become popular among businesses as it gives them more flexibility to raise funds and tap resources at home and abroad.

From The Wall Street Journal

“With good flexibility in the supply chain and a low proportion of air freight, there are opportunities to adapt the flow of goods to changed conditions,” the company said.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• resilience