elasticity

Everyday

1. The ability of a material to stretch or bend and then go back to its original shape. tree →
2. (money) How much the amount people buy changes when the price changes. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons, rubber bands, springs and balloons show elasticity; pupils test materials by stretching them and measuring. Skin and muscles also have elasticity. In economics, it describes how people react to prices. Phrases: «lose its elasticity», «elastic limit».

Examples

• Rubber bands have great elasticity. tree →
• The old elastic in my trousers has lost its elasticity. tree →
• We tested the elasticity of different materials. tree →
• Skin loses some elasticity as people get older. tree →
• A trampoline works because of the elasticity of its mat. tree →
• Springs have elasticity until you stretch them too far. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Adjective: elastic. Pronounced «ee-las-TIS-i-tee». In science, if you stretch something past its «elastic limit», it will not return to its shape.