pliant
/ˈplaɪənt/
Group 17Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Easily bent or flexible; easily influenced GRE
Example in Context
The new board members proved less pliant than the CEO had expected, challenging decisions that had previously gone unquestioned.
Synonyms
flexiblebendableadaptable
Etymology
Something that can be folded or shaped easily is flexible and pliant.
- plicare (Latin) — to fold
Memory Aid
🧘Sounds like “pliant”
A yoga instructor is so PLIANT, they can fold themselves like a pretzel!
Visual Association
🧘♂️A person effortlessly bending into an impossible yoga pose, showcasing flexibility.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “pliant” mean on the GRE?
pliant (adjective) means “Easily bent or flexible; easily influenced”. The new board members proved less pliant than the CEO had expected, challenging decisions that had previously gone unquestioned.
How to remember “pliant” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “pliant” sounds like “pliant”. A yoga instructor is so PLIANT, they can fold themselves like a pretzel!
What are synonyms for “pliant”?
Common synonyms: flexible, bendable, adaptable.