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"Nothing in this world is as reliable as change" is a common aphorism and one we can certainly attest to as lexicographers. English speakers adapted adapt, for example, in the 15th century from the Middle French adapter, which was itself an adaptation of Latin adaptāre. That source traces back to Latin aptus, meaning "fit" or "apt." Other adaptations of aptus in English include aptitude, inept, and of course apt itself, as well as unapt and inapt.
Synonyms
adapt, adjust, accommodate, conform, reconcile mean to bring one thing into correspondence with another.
adapt implies a modification according to changing circumstances.
adjust suggests bringing into a close and exact correspondence or harmony such as exists between parts of a mechanism.
accommodate may suggest yielding or compromising to effect a correspondence.
conform applies to bringing into accordance with a pattern, example, or principle.
reconcile implies the demonstration of the underlying compatibility of things that seem to be incompatible.
Examples of adapt in a Sentence
Word History
Middle English adapted (as translation of Latin adaptātus), borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French adapter, borrowed from Latin adaptāre, from ad- ad- + aptāre "to put into position, bring to bear, make ready," verbal derivative of aptus "fastened, prepared, suitable" — more at apt entry 1
15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense
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Cite this Entry
“Adapt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adapt. Accessed 8 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
adapt
verbfrom French adapter and Latin adaptare, both meaning "to adapt," from Latin ad- "to" and aptus "apt, fit" — related to apt
Medical Definition
adapt
transitive verbMore from Merriam-Webster on adapt
Nglish: Translation of adapt for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of adapt for Arabic Speakers
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