Langimage
English

pliable

|pli-a-ble|

B2

/ˈplaɪəbl/

flexibility

Etymology
Etymology Information

'pliable' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'plier,' where 'plier' meant 'to bend.'

Historical Evolution

'plier' transformed into the Middle English word 'pliable,' and eventually became the modern English word 'pliable.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'capable of being bent,' but over time it evolved to also mean 'easily influenced.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

easily bent or flexible.

The wire is pliable enough to be shaped into a circle.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

easily influenced or persuaded.

The young mind is pliable and open to new ideas.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39