versatility

[ vur-suh-til-i-tee ]

noun

1. 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.

Other Words From

• non·ver·sa·til·i·ty noun
• un·ver·sa·til·i·ty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of versatility¹

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

Example Sentences

Doncic was brilliant during the bubble playoffs, and Richardson brings some much-needed size and defensive versatility on the wing.

From 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.

From 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.

From FiveThirtyEight

Compared with Factor55’s standard Flatlink, the E adds a little versatility to its connection options.

From Outside Online

As we move later into the season, the Ultralight is showing its versatility.

From Outside Online

In the film, Foxx is able to showcase his singing, knack for comedy and all-around versatility.

From The Daily Beast

She was known for her versatility, and was nominated for her performances in Caged, Detective Story, and Interrupted Melody.

From The Daily Beast

But there is no standard in English other than its versatility.

From The Daily Beast

“I was amazed with the versatility of her look,” he explained of Lohan.

From The Daily Beast

I've since tried various replacements, none of which have had the versatility of the original gizmo.

From The Daily Beast

Tucker showed his versatility by writing drama and political satires as well as poetry.

From Project Gutenberg

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.

From Project Gutenberg

Great versatility of power will hardly be found without a tendency to versatility of principle.

From Project Gutenberg

He had not Luther's physical strength, nor his versatility of genius; nor as a reformer was he so violent.

From Project Gutenberg

Her production is studded with beauties of thought and phrase that betray a genius of rare vigor and versatility.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• adaptability