adaptability

American  

[uh-dap-tuh-bil-i-tee] / əˌdæp təˈbɪl ɪ ti /

Rarely adaptableness

noun

1. the ability to adjust to different conditions or circumstances.

   Educational institutions are switching to the new software because of its flexibility, adaptability, and ease of use.

   Critical thinking skills and emotional and intellectual adaptability are essential characteristics of an educated citizenry.

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Other Word Forms

• nonadaptability noun
• nonadaptableness noun
• readaptability noun
• superadaptableness noun
• unadaptability noun
• unadaptableness noun

Etymology

Origin of adaptability

adapt ( def. ) + -ability ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does adaptability compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• adaptability vs. flexibility

Example Sentences

"WHO provides guidelines and every country has built its index based on its own adaptability, weather and local environment," says Mr Beig.

From BBC

The study offers a detailed look at their mobility, behavior and social interactions, highlighting a level of ecological and cognitive adaptability that adds new depth to the story of Neanderthal life.

From Science Daily

Scott went on to make 83 league appearances for the Robins while still a teenager, often being used as a wing-back - and sometimes further forward as a number 10 - such was his adaptability and versatility.

From BBC

As many titles as she’s won, Waters’s greatest feat may be her adaptability.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Understanding this new mechanism opens exciting possibilities for developing antivirals or vaccines that block this remarkable adaptability," he added.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• flexibility
• versatility