Langimage
English

pliant

|pli/ant|

C1

/ˈplaɪənt/

flexible and yielding

Etymology
Etymology Information

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

Historical Evolution

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

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to bend or fold,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'flexible' and 'easily influenced.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

easily bent or flexible.

The material is pliant and can be shaped into various forms.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

easily influenced or yielding to others.

He was pliant to the demands of his superiors.

Synonyms

compliantsubmissivedocile

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/15 09:36