versatility

[ vur-suh-til-i-tee ]

/ ˌvɜr səˈtɪl ɪ ti /

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See synonyms for versatility on Thesaurus.com

noun

the state or quality of being useful for or easily adapted to various tasks, styles, fields of endeavor, etc.: The versatility of the space makes it perfect for a business lunch, an informal dinner, a cocktail with friends in the evening, or a revitalizing cup of tea.Much sought-after on the international music circuit, the conductor’s versatility and broad repertoire have taken her to symphony and chamber orchestras, contemporary music ensembles, and opera houses across the world.

QUIZ

THINGAMABOB OR THINGUMMY: CAN YOU DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THE US AND UK TERMS IN THIS QUIZ?

Do you know the difference between everyday US and UK terminology? Test yourself with this quiz on words that differ across the Atlantic.

Question 1 of 7

In the UK, COTTON CANDY is more commonly known as…

candystring

candyfloss

candypuff

TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

Rarely ver·sa·tile·ness

[vur-suh-tl-nis] /ˈvɜr sə tl nɪs/ .

Origin of versatility

First recorded in 1660–70; versatil(e) + -ity

OTHER WORDS FROM versatility

non·ver·sa·til·i·ty, nounun·ver·sa·til·i·ty, noun

Words nearby versatility

Versailles, Palace of, Versailles, Treaty of, versal, versant, versatile, versatility, vers de société, verse, versed, versed sine, verset

How to use versatility in a sentence

Doncic was brilliant during the bubble playoffs, and Richardson brings some much-needed size and defensive versatility on the wing.
NBA draft winners and losers: A win for LaMelo Ball, woe for the Warriors|Ben Golliver|November 19, 2020|Washington Post
This time, he set his sights on Israel’s Deni Avdija, a small forward with the versatility to plug into multiple different lineups and give Washington the depth and defensive bump it craves.
Wizards opt for versatility with Israel’s Deni Avdija at No. 9 pick|Ava Wallace|November 19, 2020|Washington Post
In a league that craves the offensive gravity and defensive versatility each one promises to offer, it shouldn’t be a surprise if more than one is off the board before the first 10 picks are announced.
These 3 NBA Draft Prospects Are Perfect Fits For The Modern League|Michael Pina|November 17, 2020|FiveThirtyEight
Compared with Factor55’s standard Flatlink, the E adds a little versatility to its connection options.
The Best Gift Ideas for 4x4 Enthusiasts|Wes Siler|November 12, 2020|Outside Online

As we move later into the season, the Ultralight is showing its versatility.
Velocio's Ultralight Jacket Is Your Fall Cycling Staple|Gloria Liu|October 22, 2020|Outside Online
In the film, Foxx is able to showcase his singing, knack for comedy and all-around versatility.
Jamie Foxx: Get Over the Black ‘Annie’|Stereo Williams|December 20, 2014|DAILY BEAST
She was known for her versatility, and was nominated for her performances in Caged, Detective Story, and Interrupted Melody.
The Deaths You Missed This Year|Malcolm Jones, Jimmy So, Michael Moynihan, Caitlin Dickson|December 30, 2013|DAILY BEAST
But there is no standard in English other than its versatility.
How I Write: Paul Lynch|Noah Charney|December 18, 2013|DAILY BEAST
“I was amazed with the versatility of her look,” he explained of Lohan.
Lindsay Lohan’s Sister Sets Her Sights on Modeling|Misty White Sidell|May 8, 2013|DAILY BEAST
I've since tried various replacements, none of which have had the versatility of the original gizmo.
Real Men Cut Their Own Hair|David Frum|September 24, 2012|DAILY BEAST
Tucker showed his versatility by writing drama and political satires as well as poetry.
Hallowed Heritage: The Life of Virginia|Dorothy M. Torpey
The swift versatility of my soul was upon the point of calling this as fine a figure of young womanhood as I had ever seen.
The Way of a Man|Emerson Hough
Great versatility of power will hardly be found without a tendency to versatility of principle.
The World's Greatest Books, Vol X|Various
He had not Luther's physical strength, nor his versatility of genius; nor as a reformer was he so violent.
Beacon Lights of History, Volume VI|John Lord
Her production is studded with beauties of thought and phrase that betray a genius of rare vigor and versatility.
Harper's New Monthly Magazine, No. VII, December 1850, Vol. II|Various