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

Cordano said the talks needed a rejigged and more efficient way of working, calling for "flexibility and pragmatism".

From Barron's

Researchers have uncovered the molecular interactions that give spider silk its remarkable combination of strength and flexibility.

From Science Daily

Lily-May said hybrid or remote working was not "necessarily about being lazy", and instead showed how people valued flexibility.

From BBC

"Dominance of a few tech corporations in public infrastructure limits... our flexibility, threatens our security and inflates our software costs," Schroedter told AFP.

From Barron's

Leasing can make sense for drivers who value flexibility above all else, drive fewer miles and/or want to avoid long-term loan risk, but it usually comes at a higher total cost.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• resilience