adapt

[uh-dapt]

verb (used with object)

1. to make suitable to requirements or conditions; adjust or modify fittingly.

   They adapted themselves to the change quickly.

   He adapted the novel for movies.

   Synonyms: convert, rework, modify, conform, reconcile, suit, accommodate, fit

verb (used without object)

1. to adjust oneself to different conditions, environment, etc..

   to adapt easily to all circumstances.

adapt

/ əˈdæpt /

verb

1. (often foll by to) to adjust (someone or something, esp oneself) to different conditions, a new environment, etc

2. (tr) to fit, change, or modify to suit a new or different purpose

   to adapt a play for use in schools

Other Word Forms

• adaptability noun
• adaptable adjective
• adaptive adjective
• adaptedness noun
• misadapt verb
• nonadapting adjective
• readapt verb (used with object)
• unadapted adjective
• well-adapted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of adapt¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from Latin adaptāre “to fit, adjust,” perhaps via French adapter; ad-, apt

Word History and Origins

Origin of adapt¹

C17: from Latin adaptāre, from ad- to + aptāre to fit, from aptus _apt

Synonym Study

See adjust.

Example Sentences

The brain doesn't need to pause between interactions, and it is constantly adapting to new information.

Read more on BBC

These models are essential to better assess risks for future missions and adapt technical systems accordingly.

Read more on Science Daily

"Digital technology is an opportunity we cannot miss," she said, warning that "those who do not adapt risk becoming the illiterate of the 21st century".

Read more on Barron's

The conditions were also right for Rantanen to adapt quickly in Dallas.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

More than a decade later, Dombrowski is still adapting to the times.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• acclimate 
• accommodate 
• accustom 
• alter 
• comply 
• conform 
• fit 
• modify 
• prepare 
• readjust 
• revise 
• shape 
• suit 
• tailor