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- Adaptation - meaning & definition
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Translate Files Adaptation
/ˌædæpˈteɪʃən/
Meaning & Definition
noun
the process of change by which an organism or species becomes better suited to its environment.
The adaptation of polar bears to cold climates is a remarkable example of evolution.
a change or adjustment in a system or process to improve performance or to respond to new conditions.
Their coffee shop made an adaptation to their hours to accommodate increased customer demand.
a rewritten version or variant of a work of literature, film, or other media.
The adaptation of the novel into a movie was met with mixed reviews.
the act or process of adapting.
His adaptation to the new environment took longer than expected.
Etymology
From Latin 'adaptatio', meaning 'a fitting to', from 'adaptare' meaning 'to fit to' or 'to adjust'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
survival of the fittest
The concept that only those organisms best adapted to their environment will survive and reproduce.
adapt to change
To adjust and become accustomed to new circumstances.
cultural adaptation
The process of adjusting to and becoming part of a new culture.
Related Words
adapt
To make suitable or fit for a specific purpose.
adaptable
Capable of being modified to suit different conditions or a different purpose.
adaptability
The quality of being adaptable.
Slang Meanings
Going with the flow.
She showed great adaptation in her new job, just going with the flow.
Rolling with the punches.
His adaptation to the sudden changes showed he was rolling with the punches.