Meaning & Definition of word "Adaptation"

to

arrow

    Adaptation

    /ˌædæpˈteɪʃən/

    noun:

    • 1. the process of change by which an organism or species becomes better suited to its environment.
      • Example: The adaptation of polar bears to cold climates is a remarkable example of evolution.
    • 2. a change or adjustment in a system or process to improve performance or to respond to new conditions.
      • Example: Their coffee shop made an adaptation to their hours to accommodate increased customer demand.
    • 3. a rewritten version or variant of a work of literature, film, or other media.
      • Example: The adaptation of the novel into a movie was met with mixed reviews.
    • 4. the act or process of adapting.
      • Example: 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 of adaptation

    Meaning: Going with the flow.

    Example Sentence: She showed great adaptation in her new job, just going with the flow.

    Meaning: Rolling with the punches.

    Example Sentence: His adaptation to the sudden changes showed he was rolling with the punches.