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pre·ad·ap·ta·tion | \ ˌprē-ˌa-ˌdap-ˈtā-shən 
\
\Definition of preadaptation
: a character or the condition of possessing a character that takes on a function when none previously existed or that differs from its original function : exaptation This principle of evolution is sometimes called preadaptation. There's no foresight involved, though—simply the lucky coincidence that a feature that evolved to do one thing may turn out later to do another thing even better.— Carl Zimmer
Note: While the newer term exaptation has been widely adopted, preadaptation continues to be acceptable in current usage with both terms showing comparable frequency of usage.
Other Words from preadaptation
preadapted \ ˌprē-ə-ˈdap-təd \ adjective
\ adjective
One hypothesis is that hot-blooded dinosaurs were clothed with feathers for insulation and were therefore preadapted for flight. — Alan Feduccia
preadaptive \ ˌprē-ə-ˈdap-tiv \ adjective
\ adjective preadaptive structures
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The first known use of preadaptation was in 1958
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