Elasticity of matter is that property in virtue of which a body requires force to change its bulk or shape, and requires a continued application of the force to maintain the change, and springs back when the force is removed, and, if left at rest without the force, does not remain at rest except iu its previous bulk and shape. The elasticity is said to be perfect when the body always requires the same force to keep it at rest in the same bulk and shape and at the same temperature through whatever variations of bulk, shape, and temperature it be brought.
出典:
Thomson, W, (Lord Kelvin). Encyclopaedia Britannica. Vol. VII, 9th edn. New York: Henry G Allen, 1888, pp. 796–825
https://www.libraryindex.com/encyclopedia/pages/cpxl8x75jd/elasticity-matter-pressure-body.html
