Adaptive

Definition

Having the ability to adjust to different conditions or environments; capable of modification for a specific use or purpose.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

• IPA Pronunciation:
• American: /əˈdæptɪv/
• British: /əˈdæptɪv/
• Respelling:
• American: ə-DAP-tiv
• British: ə-DAP-tiv

Etymology

From the verb "adapt", derived from Middle French "adapter", from Latin "adaptāre". The suffix "-ive" often indicates a relating or resulting nature or tendency.

Derivatives

• Adaptively
• Adaptiveness
• Adaptivity
• Adaptive system
• Adaptive response

Synonyms

• Adjustable
• Modifiable
• Flexible

Antonyms

• Rigid
• Inflexible
• Fixed

Usage

• "The software has an adaptive user interface that adjusts based on user behavior."
• "The animal displays adaptive behavior to survive in its environment."

Related Terms

• Evolution
• Acclimation
• Resilience
• Adaptation
• Responsiveness

Detailed Definition

Adjective:

• Relating to or characterized by adaptation; making suitable to particular conditions or purposes.
• Example: "An adaptive approach to learning allows each student to progress at their own pace."
• (Biology) Of, relating to, or contributing to an organism's or a species' adaptability to an environment.
• Example: "The creature's camouflage is an adaptive trait for hiding from predators."

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The term "adaptive" often describes systems, behaviors, or attributes that demonstrate an ability to change in response to specific conditions or stimuli. In various fields, ranging from technology to biology, it connotes flexibility and resilience.

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