versatile

[vur-suh-tl, -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.

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

Other Word Forms

• versatilely adverb
• versatility noun
• versatileness noun
• unversatile adjective
• unversatilely adverb
• unversatileness 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

Santa Margarita has an advantage with versatile linebacker Dash Fifita and a defensive line second to none.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

If your people are beer people, think versatile: an amber ale or clean lager, plus a solid N/A counterpart.Athletic makes good ones, though many skew hoppy, so keep your audience in mind.

Read more on Salon

The waves and lines level up your traditionally simple glass without overwhelming the table, while the over 13-ounce capacity makes it as versatile as it is striking.

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But for now, the possibility of a reunion does at least seemingly exist — thanks to Bellinger’s versatile fit, recent resurgence and lingering familiarity with the franchise.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“But people couldn’t stop her inside. They couldn’t stop her outside. She was just so versatile. She could do everything.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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