- the quality of being easily bent without breaking; flexibility: Sweet grass was favored by Native American basket makers for its sweet smell, pliability, and durability.
- the quality of adjusting readily to change; adaptability: Education should take advantage of the pliability of a child's mind and encourage a sense of curiosity.
- the quality of being easily influenced or persuaded:Recent political appointments have been based not on merit, competency, or ability, but on the candidate’s pliability, uncritical loyalty, and toadying behavior.