The word "malleable" is often misspelled as "malleabl", omitting the last letter "e". However, the correct spelling is with the final "e" to indicate the pronunciation of the vowels in the word. In IPA phonetic transcription, "malleable" is pronounced /ˈmæliəbl/. The "ea" combination creates the sound of short "e" followed by a schwa, which is represented by the letter "i" in the transcription. Remembering to include the final "e" will ensure the correct pronunciation of this word.
Malleable is an adjective that describes the ability of a substance or material to be shaped or molded into different forms without breaking or cracking. Derived from the Latin word "malleus," which means hammer, malleable implies a pliability or adaptability that allows for easy deformation under external pressure.
In the context of physical objects, specifically metals, malleable refers to the property of being able to change shape through hammering, rolling, or pressing, without losing its cohesion or structural integrity. This quality is often sought after in metalworking and manufacturing processes as it enables the creation of intricate designs or the formation of parts with specific shapes, enhancing their utility.
However, malleability is not limited to metals alone. The term can also be applied to describe abstract concepts such as ideas, opinions, or plans. In this sense, malleable refers to the flexibility of these intangible entities, which can be modified, adjusted, or influenced by external factors or new pieces of information. It suggests a receptive and adaptive nature that allows for the transformation or evolution of ideas according to different circumstances or perspectives.
To summarize, malleable describes the ability of a substance, material, or concept to be easily shaped or altered without breaking, both in the physical and abstract realms.
The word malleable comes from the Middle English term maliable, which was derived from the Old French word malleable meaning capable of being hammered or shaped with a hammer. This Old French word was in turn derived from the Latin word malleabilis, which shares the same meaning and comes from the verb malleare, meaning to hammer.