malleable
UK: ˈmæl.i.ə.bəl | US: ˈmæl.i.ə.bəl
adj. capable of being shaped or bent without breaking
adj. easily influenced or adaptable
malleable = malle<hammer> + able<capable of>
- malle (from Latin malleus, meaning "hammer")
- able (suffix from Latin -abilis, indicating capacity or ability)
Etymology Origin:
The word malleable originates from Latin malleus (hammer), reflecting the idea of being shaped by hammering, as in metalworking. The suffix -able (from Latin -abilis) denotes capability, giving the combined meaning "capable of being hammered or shaped." Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe adaptability in non-physical contexts (e.g., opinions or personalities).
Gold is highly malleable, allowing it to be pressed into thin sheets.
Children’s minds are malleable and absorb new concepts quickly.
The artist used malleable clay to sculpt the intricate figure.
His malleable nature made him susceptible to peer pressure.
The policy remained malleable to accommodate changing economic conditions.