adaptable

adjective adapt·able \ə-ˈdap-tə-bəl, a-\

: able to change or be changed in order to fit or work better in some situation or for some purpose : able to adapt or be adapted

Full Definition of ADAPTABLE

: capable of being or becoming adapted

— adapt·abil·i·ty \-ˌdap-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun

See adaptable defined for English-language learners

First Known Use of ADAPTABLE

1800

Related to ADAPTABLE

Synonyms: versatile, all-around (also all-round), protean, universal

Antonyms: established, fixed, immutable, inelastic, inflexible, invariable, nonmalleable, ramrod, set, unadaptable, unalterable, unbudgeable, unchangeable

Synonym Discussion of ADAPTABLE

plastic, pliable, pliant, ductile, malleable, adaptable mean susceptible of being modified in form or nature. plastic applies to substances soft enough to be molded yet capable of hardening into the desired fixed form <plastic materials allow the sculptor greater freedom>. pliable suggests something easily bent, folded, twisted, or manipulated <pliable rubber tubing>. pliant may stress flexibility and sometimes connote springiness <an athletic shoe with a pliant sole>. ductile applies to what can be drawn out or extended with ease <ductile metals such as copper>. malleable applies to what may be pressed or beaten into shape <the malleable properties of gold>. adaptable implies the capability of being easily modified to suit other conditions, needs, or uses <computer hardware that is adaptable>.

ADAPTABILITY Defined for Kids