Both Uses of
supple
in
Nicholas Nickleby
- On tiptoe it was destined to remain, however, until afternoon; when Squeers, having refreshed himself with his dinner, and further strengthened himself by an extra libation or so, made his appearance (accompanied by his amiable partner) with a countenance of portentous import, and a fearful instrument of flagellation, strong, supple, wax-ended, and new,—in short, purchased that morning, expressly for the occasion.†
Chpt 13
- 'Have you anything to say?' demanded Squeers again: giving his right arm two or three flourishes to try its power and suppleness.†
Chpt 13 *
Definition:
-
(supple) moving and bending easily -- sometimes used figuratively to indicate mental flexibility when adapting to different conditions