semirigid

Not fully bendable

Semirigid describes something that has some rigidity but also some flexibility—neither fully stiff nor fully pliable.

The term appears in technical contexts: a semirigid airship has an internal framework but relies partly on gas pressure for shape, unlike a rigid dirigible.

Semirigid cables or tubing can be bent but hold their position once shaped.

structure

airship

Steerable lighter-than-atmosphere craft

dirigibleSteerable lighter-than-air craft
blimpNon-rigid flying vessel
zeppelinRigid lighter-than-air craft

hull · frame · chassis · keel · gondola · envelope · framework · skeleton · armature · lattice

support

orthosis

External body support device

splintDevice immobilizing injured limbs
braceDevice providing structural stability
corsetBoned waist-shaping undergarment

collar · insole · orthotic · lumbar · immobilizer · prosthesis · exoskeleton · cast · bandage · reinforcement

materials

fiberglass

Reinforced woven strand composite

plasticCapable of being molded
compositeMade of distinct parts
foamBubble-filled substance

polycarbonate · thermoplastic · laminate · reinforced · molded · polymer · resin · lightweight · durable · sturdy

flexibility

bendable

Able to curve

pliableCapable of bending easily
yieldingBending under pressure
giveTo transfer possession

flex · springy · tensile · elastic · malleable · ductile · pliant · supple · deformable · conforming

Opposites

structural rigidity

semirigidrigid

Unable to bend

inflexible · flexible · stiff · unyielding · limp

Family

rigid, rigidity, rigidly, rigorously, rigidness, rigidify, rigidifies, nonrigid, rigidified

Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G