Supple

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ˈsÊŒpÉ™l/
• Rhymes: -ÊŒpÉ™l

Origin

From Middle English souple, from Old French souple, soupple ("soft, lithe, yielding"), from Latin supplic-, supplex ("suppliant, submissive, kneeling"), of uncertain formation. Either from sub + plicō ("bend") (compare complex), or from sub + plācō ("placate"). More at sub-, placate.

Full definition of supple

Adjective

1. pliant, flexible, easy to bend
2. lithe and agile when moving and bendingsupple joints; supple fingers
3. compliant; yielding to the will of othersa supple horse
• John LockeIf punishment ... makes not the will supple, it hardens the offender.

Verb

1. To make or become supple.
• DrydenThe stones ... suppled into softness as they fell.
• SpenserThe flesh therewith she suppled and did steep.
2. To make compliant, submissive, or obedient.
• John Lockea mother persisting till she had bent her daughter's mind and suppled her will
• BarrowThey should supple our stiff willfulness.