1. not able to stretch and return to original shape; lacking flexibility
2. not readily adaptable or responsive to change
3. showing little change in quantity demanded when price changes
Usage: economics

Examples

• The old rubber band had become inelastic and snapped when stretched.
• His inelastic thinking prevented him from considering new solutions.
• The company’s inelastic policies made it difficult to adapt to market changes.
• Gasoline has relatively inelastic demand because people need it regardless of price.
• The inelastic material could not be stretched without breaking.
• Her inelastic schedule left no room for unexpected meetings.
• Basic necessities like food tend to have inelastic demand curves.