Malleable

Adjective

Definition: Capable of being bent, shaped, or influenced easily; pliable.

Synonyms: Pliable, Flexible, Adaptable

Antonyms: Rigid, Inflexible, Unyielding

Examples:

The artist used a malleable clay to shape the sculpture.
Children's minds are often more malleable than adults'.

Mnemonics:

Imagine a piece of metal that can be easily molded like clay.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "malleable" comes from the Latin word "malleus" meaning "hammer."

Historical Usage:

"Malleable" has been in use in English since the late 14th century. Its original usage referred specifically to metals being capable of being hammered or shaped easily.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Malleable mind"

Explanation:

Refers to a person who is receptive to new ideas or easily influenced.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "malleable" with "mutable" or "changeable."

Explanation:

While "malleable" refers to being physically or figuratively shapeable, "mutable" and "changeable" refer more to the ability to undergo alterations or modifications.