adaptable

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

Synonyms of adaptable

• 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

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

The Solar Mars Bot shows how portable power can become more intelligent, adaptable and hands-off when conditions are unpredictable. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 9 Jan. 2026

January 06, 2026 How does an organization with 100 years of history stay relevant, adaptable, and forward-looking? —Harvard Business Review, 6 Jan. 2026

But his boss was also adaptable enough to change his style to incorporate successful trends. —Andrew Greif, NBC news, 2 Jan. 2026

The sneakers are outfitted with the brand’s signature Fresh Foam insole that provides comfort and adaptable support. —Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 31 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

adapt + -able

First Known Use

1692, in the meaning defined above