malleable

[/ˈmæliəbl/ or /ˈmæljəbl/]
adjective
maleável
1. Capable of being hammered, pressed, or rolled into thin sheets without breaking; physically flexible or adaptable in form
Gold is a malleable metal that can be shaped into jewelry.
O ouro é um metal maleável que pode ser moldado em joias.
2. Capable of being changed or influenced; adaptable in character or opinions
Young people are often considered more malleable in their beliefs.
Pessoas jovens são frequentemente consideradas mais maleáveis em suas crenças.
3. Easy to manage or control; responsive to influence
The malleable clay was perfect for the sculpture.
A argila maleável era perfeita para a escultura.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, 'malleable' is widely used in technical discussions about metals and materials, as well as in psychological and educational discourse to describe adaptability of individuals, particularly children and adolescents. The term carries positive connotations of adaptability and potential for growth in psychological contexts, while in technical contexts it refers to a specific physical property valued in manufacturing and craftsmanship.
NYC Slang
flexible / easy to work with
Synonyms / Sinônimos
flexibleadaptablepliableductilecompliantimpressionabletractable
Antonyms / Antônimos
rigidinflexiblebrittleimmovableobstinateunyielding

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
maleável
Standard term used in technical, scientific, and figurative contexts
Portugal
maleável
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; occasionally 'moldável' used in informal contexts
Technical/Scientific contexts
dúctil
Preferred term in metallurgy and materials science

Related Words

malleabilityductilepliableplasticityflexibilityadaptability

Related Idioms & Phrases

malleable mind
malleable material
malleable character
like putty in one's hands (similar concept of malleability in personality)
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