Definition of protean
1 : of or resembling Proteus in having a varied nature or ability to assume different forms
2 : displaying great diversity or variety : versatile
Read the Latest from M-W
protean was our Word of the Day on 02/18/2017. Hear the podcast!
Theme music by Joshua Stamper ©2006 New Jerusalem Music/ASCAP
Examples of protean in a Sentence
a protean actor who is equally comfortable with light comedy and serious drama
Did You Know?
Proteus was the original master of disguise. According to Greek mythology, the grizzled old shepherd of Poseidon's sea creatures possessed the gift of prophecy but didn't like to share his knowledge. Proteus would escape those who wanted to question him by changing his shape. The only way to get a straight answer from him was to sneak up behind him during his midday nap and hold onto him (while he frantically changed from shape to shape) until he eventually revealed what he knew. The adjective "protean" describes anyone or anything that is as mutable and adaptable as the mythological shepherd.
1594
First Known Use of protean
1594
PROTEAN Defined for English Language Learners
protean
playDefinition of protean for English Language Learners
-
: able to change into many different forms or able to do many different things
Medical Dictionary
Medical Definition of protean
: displaying great diversity or variety a disease with protean clinical manifestations
Learn More about protean
-
Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for protean
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up protean? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!