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Pliant - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Pliant means easily bent or flexible, often describing materials like rubber or soft wood. It can also refer to people who are adaptable or yielding to others’ influence.

pliant

/ˈplaɪənt/ /ˈplaɪənt/

Definition:

Easily bent or flexible; adaptable to change.

Synonyms:

Flexible, supple, malleable, adaptable, yielding

Part of Speech:

Adjective

Antonyms:

Rigid, inflexible, stubborn

Common Collocations:

Pliant material, pliant mind, pliant branches, pliant attitude

Derivatives:

Pliantly, pliancy

Usage Tips:

Use "pliant" to describe objects that bend easily or people who adapt readily.

Common Phrases:

Pliant as a willow, pliant to persuasion, pliant under pressure

Etymology:

From Old French "pliant," present participle of "plier" (to bend), from Latin "plicare" (to fold).

Examples:

  • 1. The young tree's pliant branches swayed in the breeze.
  • 2. She was pliant and open to new ideas during the discussion.
  • 3. The leather became pliant after applying the conditioner.
  • 4. His pliant nature made him easy to work with on the team.

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