adjusts; adjusted; adjusting
1
a
: to change (something) in a minor way so that it works better
The car is easier to drive since the clutch was adjusted.
I adjusted the volume on the radio.
b
: to change the position of (something)
He adjusted his glasses/tie.
She adjusted the car seat so she could reach the pedals.
2
: to change in order to work or do better in a new situation
Going to a new school can be difficult, but the kids will eventually adjust.
—often + toThe kids will eventually adjust to the new school.
Our eyes gradually adjusted to the darkness of the cave.
It's hard to adjust to the idea that she's gone.
It's hard to adjust myself to the idea that she's gone.
3
: to make an amount or number more exact by considering other information
—usually + for
He actually makes less money now than he did 10 years ago, when you adjust his salary for inflation. [=when you calculate what his salary would be without inflation]
He makes less money now, when you adjust for inflation, than he did 10 years ago.
Cite this Entry
“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/adjust. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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