Elastic deformation is a temporary change in shape that occurs when a material is subjected to stress, such as stretching or compressing. When the force is removed, the material returns to its original shape. This behavior is commonly seen in everyday objects like rubber bands and springs, which can stretch and then bounce back when released. The ability of materials to undergo elastic deformation is crucial in various applications, including engineering and construction. For instance, steel beams in buildings can flex under heavy loads but will return to their original form once the load is removed, ensuring structural integrity and safety.