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Definition & Meaning: Elast(o)- Word Root

The word Elast(o)- is derived from the Greek word Elastos, which means ductile or flexible. This root is evident in the word “elasticity,” a term we frequently encounter, making it easier to comprehend the meaning of words containing the root “Elast(o)-“.To better understand, let’s break down the word elastomer:

  • Elast(o)-: ductile or flexible
  • -mer: a suffix meaning “part” or “segment”

Thus, an elastomer is a natural or synthetic polymer having elastic properties, such as rubber.

Example Sentence: “Elastomers were created as an alternative to natural rubber and have expanded to include materials from thermoset rubber polymers.”

Diagram showing the words elastomer, elastoplast, and elastosis with their meanings derived from the elast(o)- root word.

Words Based on the Elast(o)- Word Root

Commonly Used Words

  • Elastomer: Any of various lightly cross-linked polymers whose glass transition temperature is below room temperature so that they have rubberlike properties; used in dentistry as an impression material and for maxillofacial extraoral prostheses.
  • Elastoplast: A trademark for an elastic bandage.
  • Elastosis: The degeneration and fragmentation of elastic fibres or tissue.

Archaic or Less Common Words

  • Elastoid: A substance formed by the hyaline (glassy translucent material) degeneration of the internal elastic lamina of blood vessels; seen in the vessels of the uterus after the delivery of a baby.
  • Elastoidosis: Changes in the skin resembling elastosis.
  • Elastolytic: Dissolution (separation) of elastic fibres.
  • Elastoma: A tumour or focal excess of elastic tissue fibres or abnormal collagen fibres of the skin.
  • Elastopathy: Deficiency of elastic tissue.
  • Elastorrhexis: The rupture of elastic fibres.
  • Elastose: A peptone resulting from gastric digestion of elastin (protein that coils and recoils like a spring within the elastic fibres of connective tissue).

Technical Words/Jargon

  • Elastocloric: That produces heat by physical deformation.
  • Elastofluid: Both elastic and fluid.
  • Elastometry: The measurement of elasticity.
  • Elastocapillary: That involves both elastic and capillary forces or effects.
  • Elastodynamic: Of or pertaining to elastodynamics.

Related Word Roots

Here are some related word roots that convey similar meanings:

Flex- (Latin: bend)

  • Flexible: Capable of bending easily without breaking.
  • Flexor: A muscle that serves to bend a limb or other part of the body.

Plast- (Greek: mould, form)

  • Plastic: A synthetic material made from a wide range of organic polymers that can be moulded into shape while soft and then set into a rigid or slightly elastic form.
  • Rhinoplasty: Plastic surgery performed on the nose.

Ten- (Latin: hold)

  • Tensile: Relating to tension; capable of being drawn out or stretched.
  • Tension: The state of being stretched tight.

We hope this article on the commonly used Elast(o) Root Word has been helpful to you in remembering the words based on the Root Word Elast(o) and enhancing your vocabulary. Linking words with familiar concepts can make it easier to memorise and understand their meanings.

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