versatile

[ vur-suh-tlor, especially British, -tahyl ]

adjective

1. capable of or adapted for turning easily from one to another of various tasks, fields of endeavor, etc.:

   It takes a truly versatile writer to manage two genres so well.

   Synonyms: all-around, adaptable

2. having or capable of many uses:

   A pocket knife is a versatile tool.

   Synonyms: handy, all-around, adaptable

3. Botany. attached at or near the middle so as to swing freely, as an anther.
4. Zoology. turning either forward or backward:

   a versatile toe.

5. variable or changeable, as in feeling, purpose, or policy:

   His versatile moods made him a challenge to work with.

6. Slang. vers ( def ).

versatile

/ ˌvɜːsəˈtɪlɪtɪ; ˈvɜːsəˌtaɪl /

adjective

1. capable of or adapted for many different uses, skills, etc
2. variable or changeable
3. botany (of an anther) attached to the filament by a small area so that it moves freely in the wind
4. zoology able to turn forwards and backwards

   versatile antennae

Derived Forms

• versatility, noun
• ˈversaˌtilely, adverb

Other Words From

• ver·sa·tile·ly adverb
• ver·sa·til·i·ty [vur-s, uh, -, til, -i-tee], ver·sa·tile·ness [vur, -s, uh, -tl-nis] noun
• un·ver·sa·tile adjective
• un·ver·sa·tile·ly adverb
• un·ver·sa·tile·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of versatile¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Latin versātilis “revolving, many-sided,” from versāt(us) “turned repeatedly” (past participle of versāre “to turn repeatedly,” from vertere “to turn”; verse ) + -ilis -ile

Word History and Origins

Origin of versatile¹

C17: from Latin versātilis moving around, from versāre to turn

Example Sentences

Actor Timothy West, one of Britain's most distinguished and versatile actors, has died at the age of 90, his family have announced.

From BBC

It’s so versatile and could fit anywhere from like a size 30 to a size 36.

From Los Angeles Times

Berry is a versatile actor whose earliest introduction to American audiences likely came via his series regular role in "The IT Crowd" and recurring appearances in "The Mighty Boosh."

From Salon

Indian food can be a versatile, everyday food.

From Salon

So how about this: You've spoken about this being the most versatile role you’ve played, which now I think people understand.

From Salon

Related Words

• accomplished
• adaptable
• all-around
• functional
• gifted
• resourceful
• skilled
• skillful
• talented