versatility

Rarely ver·sa·tile·ness

[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 Word Forms

• nonversatility noun
• unversatility noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of versatility¹

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

Example Sentences

Humanoid robots lack strength, dexterity and specialized appendages—like welders or grinding wheels—but startups building them are betting they compensate through versatility.

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With just three round robin games before next week’s championship, Team USA will quickly learn whether its plan to maximize versatility was the right one.

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Burr said Khamenia can play different positions because of her size and versatility, go inside or make threes like her brother.

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Vanderbilt is the Lakers’ other top defender, his versatility allowing him to guard multiple positions.

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To show his versatility, he became known for his program’s warp speed, no-huddle offense through the years.

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Related Words

• adaptability