Definitions for: Elasticity

[n] the tendency of a body to return to its original shape after it has been stretched or compressed

Webster (1913) Definition: E`las*tic"i*ty, n. [Cf. F. ['e]lasticit['e].]
1. The quality of being elastic; the inherent property in
bodies by which they recover their former figure or
dimensions, after the removal of external pressure or
altering force; springiness; tendency to rebound; as, the
elasticity of caoutchouc; the elasticity of the air.

2. Power of resistance to, or recovery from, depression or
overwork.

Coefficient of elasticity, the quotient of a stress (of a
given kind), by the strain (of a given kind) which it
produces; -- called also coefficient of resistance.

Surface of elasticity (Geom.), the pedal surface of an
ellipsoid (see Pedal); a surface used in explaining the
phenomena of double refraction and their relation to the
elastic force of the luminous ether in crystalline media.

Antonyms: inelasticity

See Also: bounce, bounciness, elasticity of shear, give, physical property, resilience, resiliency, spring, springiness, stretch, stretchability, stretchiness, temper, toughness

Try our:
Scrabble Word Finder

Scrabble Cheat

Words With Friends Cheat

Hanging With Friends Cheat

Scramble With Friends Cheat

Ruzzle Cheat

Related Resources:
animals starting with b
e letter animals