Definition of adaptationnext
as in adjustment
the act or process of changing something to fit a new use or situation a careful adaptation of the book for the silver screen could take several years

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of adaptation The analysis also showed that structural adaptations could substantially reduce damage risks. — Sibi Arasu, Los Angeles Times, 28 Oct. 2026 Instead, their adaptations declined to modernize the novel’s setting and embraced finding new ways into the protagonists. — Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 28 Oct. 2026 The Colonial Players present adaptation of Washington Irving’s classic ghost story, featuring spooky themes, comedic scares, stylized violence, suspenseful moments, and mild language. — Jamie Chapman, Baltimore Sun, 28 Oct. 2026 Barrie would reprise the Breaking Away role for a TV series adaptation, earning an Emmy nomination. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 28 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adaptation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adaptation
Noun
  • The test would help establish whether the reactor can maintain sustained operation without requiring constant human adjustments.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2026
  • The adjustment marks the first price hike for the popular Platinum Select consumer card since 2018, signaling a shift in the travel rewards landscape.
    — Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • So there’s a lot of communication with the driver and there’s a lot of adaption as the race goes on.
    — Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Pugh stars as the infamous Cathy Ames in the upcoming Netflix adaption of East of Eden.
    — Meg Walters, InStyle, 26 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Adaptation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adaptation. Accessed 4 Nov. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on adaptation

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster