adaptive

[ uh-dap-tiv ]

adjective

1. serving or able to adapt; showing or contributing to adaptation:

   the adaptive coloring of a chameleon.

Other Words From

• a·daptive·ly adverb
• a·daptive·ness noun
• ad·ap·tiv·i·ty [ad-ap-, tiv, -i-tee], noun
• nona·daptive adjective
• rea·daptive adjective
• rea·daptive·ly adverb
• rea·daptive·ness noun
• una·daptive adjective
• una·daptive·ly adverb
• una·daptive·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of adaptive¹

First recorded in 1815–25; adapt + -ive

Example Sentences

But despite the seeming simplicity of blood-sucking, it takes a lot to evolve such adaptive behavior.

From Salon

The Los Angeles area offers a range of adaptive sports opportunities, allowing you to try out activities if you were inspired by the Paralympics.

From Los Angeles Times

His story is common among people with disabilities who say it was only by chance they stumbled across adaptive sports.

From Los Angeles Times

The president emphasised the need to address "environmental concerns" and "build a more climate resilient and adaptive society", the statement added.

From BBC

Frech’s family founded Angel City Sports in 2013 and the nonprofit provides year-round adaptive sports clinics, classes and competitions for kids, adults and veterans with physical disabilities.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• flexible