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

This says a lot about just how incredibly adaptable insects are. —Andrew Coletti, Popular Science, 12 Mar. 2026

According to Langelo, bearded irises are among the most adaptable plants to grow in the garden, thanks to their ability to flourish in a wide range of soil conditions. —Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 11 Mar. 2026

Overnight Oats The most hands-off breakfast on this list, and one of the most adaptable. —Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 10 Mar. 2026

But for close to a century the ceremony has proved to be remarkably durable — as inventive and adaptable as America itself, and decidedly more glamorous. —Maer Roshan, HollywoodReporter, 10 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

adapt + -able

First Known Use

1692, in the meaning defined above