maladaptive

adjective

mal·​adap·​tive ˌma-lə-ˈdap-tiv How to pronounce maladaptive (audio)
1
: marked by poor or inadequate adaptation
2
: not conducive to adaptation

Examples of maladaptive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Teens can ultimately carry this damaging mindset into adulthood, according to Dr. Hafeez, which may manifest in anxiety and low self-esteem, as well as maladaptive coping mechanisms such as self-blame and self-punishment for not meeting perfectionistic standards. Melissa Willets, Parents, 22 Sep. 2025 There were concerns that rankings could serve as maladaptive motivators for health institutions, encouraging them to expend resources to climb the ranks rather than to serve their patients. Alexis Kayser, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025 That, McSparran says, can lead to potentially dangerous, maladaptive patterns of behavior. Time, 26 Aug. 2025 Since maladaptive daydreaming is not yet recognized as an official diagnosis, no diagnostic tests have been developed. Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 7 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for maladaptive

Word History

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of maladaptive was in 1931

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Cite this Entry

“Maladaptive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maladaptive. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

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