plasticity

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the capacity of a material to be reshaped permanently without breaking

   The clay's plasticity allowed the potter to form a very thin rim.

2. 2
   noun

   the ability of the brain or nervous system to change its organization in response to experience or injury

   Repeated practice can exploit the brain's plasticity after a stroke.

3. 3
   noun

   the capacity of an organism or biological trait to vary in response to environmental conditions

   The plant's plasticity lets it develop broader leaves in deep shade.

Formed from plastic + -ity. Plastic comes through Latin plasticus from Ancient Greek plastikos ("fit for molding"), from plassein ("to mold or form"). The physical sense was extended to the capacity of brains and organisms to change.

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