Souplesse

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The characteristic of being limber or pliable is desirable in numerous disciplines, indicating an elegance in motion and functionality, plus it symbolizes a seamless adaptability in various aspects
2. A trait marked by gracefulness and flexibility serves as an asset in many activities, highlighting fluidity in physical skills as well as in broader contexts
3. The quality of being graceful and flexible often enhances performance across various sports and activities, denoting a smooth adaptability in both movement and environment

Etymology: "Souplesse" is a French noun meaning "flexibility," built from "souple," "supple," which goes back to Latin "supplex," "submissive" or "pliant." In English it keeps its French spelling and its sense of effortless, pliant grace, the quality that lets a dancer, gymnast or skater move as though the body has no stiff joints. The word's shape tells the story. French "souple" is the adjective for something bendable or yielding, and "souplesse" is the abstract noun formed from it, so it names the quality rather than the thing. English borrowed the noun whole, carrying over that sense of pliancy and ease, which is why it is still used most often for physical movement, though the same idea extends to adapting smoothly to a situation.

Synonyms: flexibility, suppleness

Antonyms: rigidity