adaptable

1 of 2

adjective

adapt·​able ə-ˈdap-tə-bəl 

a-

: capable of being or becoming adapted

plants that are easily adaptable to colder climates

adaptability

ə-ˌdap-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

a-

noun

adaptability

2 of 2

noun

adapt·​abil·​i·​ty ə-ˌdap-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē  a- 

: the quality or state of being adaptable

the adaptability of the subject to varied art forms

youth's adaptability to new surroundings

Synonyms of adaptable

Adjective

• versatile

Choose the Right Synonym for 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

Examples of adaptable in a Sentence

Adjective

an adaptable tool that combines a screwdriver, a corkscrew, and pliers

an activities director who's adaptable to any kind of situation

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Long story short, linen is adaptable, and its appeal extends well beyond a single decorating style. — Nina Derwin, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2026

Its adaptable design allows small combat units to maintain swift, flexible logistics in hazardous areas where standard transport cannot go. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 12 Aug. 2026

Investment should prioritize the skills most exposed to disruption, including digital fluency, leadership and adaptable problem-solving, since these are precisely where the Workday and Productivity Commission findings show preparation is weakest. — Ayush Gupta, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026

Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks or easy weekday meals, and easily adaptable with different beans and cheeses. — Tribune News Service, Baltimore Sun, 6 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

adapt + -able

First Known Use

Adjective

1692, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1661, in the meaning defined above