maladapted

[ mal-uh-dap-tid ]

adjective

1. poorly suited or adapted to a particular condition or set of circumstances:

   maladapted to the demands of modern society.

Word History and Origins

Origin of maladapted¹

First recorded in 1940–45; mal- + adapted ( def )

Example Sentences

"Mink are not just more susceptible to COVID-19 and bird flu H5N1 on a molecular level, they also get sick more than other animals because of their high density, high-stress farm environments to which they are genetically, behaviorally, and physiologically maladapted."

From Salon

His macho posturing is maladapted, only escalating Trina’s troubles and sending him back to his couch.

From Los Angeles Times

Hot summer conditions are making some urban areas nearly unlivable, and experts are concerned that migration may be the only option in maladapted areas.

From Salon

That blithe attitude has been fundamental to many of Shannon’s best-known characters, like Mary Katherine Gallagher, the maladapted but plucky schoolgirl who was her signature role on “S.N.L.”

From New York Times

Many appear maladapted to land: “There are those who would call our devotion to the pool excessive, if not pathological,” our narrators tell us.

From New York Times