protean

[ proh-tee-uhn, proh-tee- ]

adjective

1. readily assuming different forms or characters; extremely variable.
2. changeable in shape or form, as an amoeba.
3. (of an actor or actress) versatile; able to play many kinds of roles.
4. (initial capital letter) of, relating to, or suggestive of Proteus.

protean

/ ˈprəʊtɪən; prəʊˈtiːən /

adjective

1. readily taking on various shapes or forms; variable

Other Words From

• prote·an·ism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of protean¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; Prote(us) + -an

Word History and Origins

Origin of protean¹

C16: from Proteus

Example Sentences

Seven years later, amid a rise of anti-global nationalists across significant parts of the planet, he remains optimistic that the American-made world order will endure because international issues such as climate change make its “protean vision of interdependence and cooperation… more important as the century unfolds.”

From Salon

Audiard, the protean French filmmaker of “A Prophet,” “Rust and Bone” and the 2015 Cannes Palme d’Or winner “Dheepan,” said the idea first occurred to him while reading a novel with a chapter about a narco trafficker who wanted to change his identity.

From Seattle Times

And this Orlando is played by the protean writer and performer Taylor Mac, who delivers the line while cutting a resplendent androgynous figure in shiny red boots and white, vaguely Elizabethan garb.

From New York Times

Faith Ringgold, who died Saturday at 93, was an artist of protean inventiveness.

From New York Times

The choreographer Benjamin Millepied is a protean figure.

From New York Times

Related Words

• multifaceted