as in versatile
able to do many different kinds of things
a protean actor who is equally comfortable with light comedy and serious drama
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Recent Examples of protean
The causes of our constitutional disarray are protean.
—
Janice Rogers Brown, National Review, 22 June 2024
From its opening of a cassette clicking into a deck, FKA Twigs’ 17-track mixtape takes us through a protean universe of dancehall, trap-flecked R&B, and dreamy pop that skirts the mainstream to stay inventive.
—Spin Staff, SPIN, 26 Dec. 2022
When not composing operas, orchestral works or chamber pieces, Tyshawn Sorey is a protean drummer and band leader.
—San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Dec. 2022
Ballet Hispánico is at the top of its game here, and Lopez Ochoa displays the dancers’ silken, protean talents beautifully.
—Sarah L. Kaufman, Washington Post, 1 Dec. 2022
See All Example Sentences for protean
Janice Rogers Brown, National Review, 22 June 2024
From its opening of a cassette clicking into a deck, FKA Twigs’ 17-track mixtape takes us through a protean universe of dancehall, trap-flecked R&B, and dreamy pop that skirts the mainstream to stay inventive.
—Spin Staff, SPIN, 26 Dec. 2022
When not composing operas, orchestral works or chamber pieces, Tyshawn Sorey is a protean drummer and band leader.
—San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Dec. 2022
Ballet Hispánico is at the top of its game here, and Lopez Ochoa displays the dancers’ silken, protean talents beautifully.
—Sarah L. Kaufman, Washington Post, 1 Dec. 2022
See All Example Sentences for protean
Recent Examples of Synonyms for protean
Adjective
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But all of them have the potential to become the most versatile pair in your arsenal.—
Shelby Ying Hyde,
Glamour,
11 Nov. 2025
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The natural wood frame and easy assembly make the Nectar bamboo piece a versatile and style-agnostic choice.—
Kate McGregor,
Architectural Digest,
11 Nov. 2025
Adjective
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But his boss was also adaptable enough to change his style to incorporate successful trends.—
Andrew Greif,
NBC news,
2 Jan. 2026
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The sneakers are outfitted with the brand’s signature Fresh Foam insole that provides comfort and adaptable support.—
Clara McMahon,
PEOPLE,
31 Dec. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Protean.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/protean. Accessed 8 Jan. 2026.
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