supple

Supple is an adjective describing the quality of being easily bent, folded, or twisted without breaking. It also conveys adaptability and ease of movement, applying to bodies, materials, or systems. In everyday use, supple implies graceful flexibility combined with resilience, enabling motion or adjustment with little effort or resistance.

Etymology: The word derives from Middle English supple, via Old French souple, from Latin supplex, meaning bending, supplicant, from sub- "under" and plicare "to fold." Early senses emphasized pliability and bendability; later senses broadened to include adaptability to changing conditions.

Applications: In materials science, supple metals or polymers can be deformed repeatedly without fracture. In anatomy or sport, a supple body or joints indicates a wide range of motion and responsiveness. In textiles, supple leather or fabric is smooth and flexible. In policy or strategy, a supple plan can adjust to new information or contexts. Antonyms include stiff, rigid, and inflexible. Related terms include pliant, flexible, and elastic.