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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 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 Adding to the otherworldly ambience is the shifting jazz-folk score by Mary Komasa and Antoni Łazarkiewicz, which, like our hero, is similarly protean in nature. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 25 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for protean
Recent Examples of Synonyms for protean
  1. versatile
  2. adaptable
Adjective
  • Things that are versatile, that will last a lifetime, will give you so much more than anything else.
    — Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 22 Sep. 2026
  • Quince’s mid-hip coat is a versatile basic made with luxe Italian wool, while Free People’s slouchier, intentionally oversized option leaves plenty of room to layer chunky sweaters.
    — Malia Griggs, Glamour, 21 Sep. 2026
Definition of versatile
Adjective
  • The challenge is that modernization is not simply about adding more technology, but is about creating an operation that is more adaptable, more visible and ultimately easier for people to manage.
    — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 16 Sep. 2026
  • Rather than a basic cell update, the system is a adaptable modular architecture that integrates into existing vehicle lines.
    — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 15 Sep. 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 23 Sep. 2026.

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