adaptability

Rarely a·dapt·a·ble·ness

[uh-dap-tuh-bil-i-tee]

noun

1. the ability to adjust to different conditions or circumstances.

   Educational institutions are switching to the new software because of its flexibility, adaptability, and ease of use.

   Critical thinking skills and emotional and intellectual adaptability are essential characteristics of an educated citizenry.

Other Word Forms

• nonadaptability noun
• nonadaptableness noun
• readaptability noun
• superadaptableness noun
• unadaptability noun
• unadaptableness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of adaptability¹

adapt ( def. ) + -ability ( def. )

Example Sentences

But Jeglertz has added a sprinkle of unpredictability and adaptability since his arrival in the summer.

Read more on BBC

She's now retired from professional sport, but has shown a similar adaptability and resilience in her new career which includes acting, modelling and broadcasting including competing in Dancing on Ice.

Read more on BBC

That adaptability came to define its role in the 1971 war.

Read more on BBC

Our music exams/auditions need a complete overhaul in order to embrace improvisation, sound-placement, acoustics, adaptability in sound creation — so many of these elements and ingredients come too late for many.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

That adaptability has allowed him to thrive in environments where others have failed.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• flexibility 
• versatility