Floppiness

Floppiness refers to the characteristic of something being easily bent, yielding, or lacking rigidity, often associated with a lack of firmness or stiffness. It describes a state of being limp, flexible, or lacking structural support, leading to an unconstrained and often unsteady movement or appearance. The degree of floppiness can vary, ranging from slight pliability to complete collapse. This quality is frequently observed in materials like fabric, dough, or even certain physical structures, impacting their form and functionality.

Floppiness meaning with examples

• The newborn's floppiness was a concern for the doctor, checking the baby's muscle tone. The nurse gently supported the infant's head, which had little rigidity. Assessing the infant's floppiness, the doctor evaluated reflexes and overall development. The lack of firmness prompted further examination to rule out underlying health issues.
• The old, worn-out mattress exhibited noticeable floppiness. It sagged considerably in the middle, offering little support. This floppiness made sleeping uncomfortable. It was time to replace it with a newer, firmer model for better rest and spinal alignment.
• The dough’s excessive floppiness meant it was over-proofed and unmanageable. It sprawled across the counter like a deflated blob. The baker attempted to knead it to add structure. Realizing the floppiness, they knew they needed to start anew and discard the batch.
• The overripe tomato's floppiness indicated its deteriorated state. It felt soft to the touch, lacking firmness and its once-vibrant colour had faded. The fruit was likely past its prime and had a mushy texture. The floppiness made it unsuitable for slicing, prompting immediate discarding.