protean

adjective

ˈprō-tē-ən How to pronounce protean (audio)
Definition of proteannext
as in versatile
able to do many different kinds of things a protean actor who is equally comfortable with light comedy and serious drama

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 protean Spielberg—youthful, awkward, affable, scarred—was a protean talent who found gold dust in every shot. — Michael O’Donnell, The Atlantic, 10 Feb. 2026 That preternaturally projecting voice and strangely protean accent. — Judy Berman, Time, 30 Jan. 2026 His beliefs and artistic inclinations were protean and often contradictory. — Vince Passaro, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025 Davis spent his career sounding the depths of his protean creativity. — Helena Alonso Paisley, Miami Herald, 4 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for protean
Recent Examples of Synonyms for protean
  1. versatile
  2. adaptable
Adjective
  • How Cube Steak Is Used and Cooked Cube steak is extremely versatile.
    — Natalia Vela, Southern Living, 3 Nov. 2026
  • Every inch counts To make the best use of space, the design focuses on versatile furniture and solutions that serve multiple purposes, helping to avoid clutter in the rooms.
    — Marilena Pitino, Architectural Digest, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of versatile
Adjective
  • The company describes Vectis as a survivable and adaptable aircraft for future combat requirements.
    — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 25 Oct. 2026
  • Scroll on to discover four adaptable outfit ideas for the wedding non-traditionalist.
    — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 22 Oct. 2026
Definition of adaptable

Browse Nearby Words

protagonists
protean
protect
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Cite this Entry

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

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