Dictionary entry

Supple

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Sup″ple (sŭp″p'l), a. [OE. souple, F. souple, from L. supplex suppliant, perhaps originally, being the knees. Cf. Supplicate.] 1. Pliant; flexible; easily bent; as, supple joints; supple fingers.

2. Yielding; compliant; not obstinate; submissive to guidance; as, a supple horse.

If punishment... makes not the will supple, it hardens the offender. Locke.

3. Bending to the humor of others; flattering; fawning; obsequious. Addison.

Syn. — Pliant; flexible; yielding; compliant; bending; flattering; fawning; soft.