dehnbare

Dehnbare is a German adjective meaning stretchable or elastic. It is the attributive form of dehnbar, formed from the verb dehnen (to stretch) plus the suffix -bar meaning capable of. The term describes materials that can be extended under tension and return toward their original form to a significant degree, though the degree of elasticity can vary by substance.

In textiles, dehnbare fabrics are those that allow some give, often through the inclusion of elastic fibers such as elastane (spandex) or through knitting or weaving structures that permit stretch. Such fabrics are common in sportswear, underwear, shapewear, and other garments where a snug yet flexible fit is desired. Dehnbarkeit, the property of stretchability, is typically discussed alongside parameters like elongation, elasticity, and recovery.

Linguistically, dehnbare is used as an attributive adjective before nouns; its ending changes according to gender, number, and case (for example dehnbarer Stoff in singular or dehnbare Stoffe in plural forms with definite or indefinite articles). The noun associated with the property is Dehnbarkeit.

In English contexts, dehnbare is usually translated as stretchable or elastic, though precise translation depends on context, since German distinguishes between stretchability and absolute elasticity. The term emphasizes the practical aspect of a material's ability to extend under load while maintaining structure and function.