1. n. [Geology]

The deformation that can be recovered when an applied stress has been removed. When the elastic limit of a material has been exceeded, nonrecoverable, permanent deformation occurs.

See related terms: elastic limit,  plastic deformation,  rheology

2. n. [Geophysics]

A temporary change in shape caused by applied stress. The change in shape is not permanent and the initial shape is completely recovered once the stress is removed.