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

• all-around
• all-round
• protean
• universal
• 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

Research shows that people who are more curious often feel more fulfilled and adaptable. —Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025

Why is a new No 10 important for Amorim? Analysis from Laurie Whitwell Cunha’s familiarity with that position behind the striker in a 3-4-2-1 formation enhances his appeal for United, who want adaptable players but also need new signings to hit the ground running. —Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025

An adaptable three-piece band remained on high alert for what could come next. —Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2025

The discovery suggests Denisovans were adaptable to a variety of environments and climates, from chilly, high-elevation places like Siberia and the Tibetan Plateau to warm, humid locales like Taiwan. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 11 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

adapt + -able

First Known Use

1692, in the meaning defined above