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

Assessing Ilione, England head coach Borthwick told Rugby Union Weekly: "He's started the season well at Leicester and he's got that versatility to play at eight as well."

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He consulted with others about whether Maggie should go to a high school that has field hockey, and they told him being good in several sports will help her versatility in field hockey.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Combine that top-shelf writing and musical versatility with a band that’s growing more and more comfortable in its own skin and you end up with Militarie Gun’s new album, “God Save the Gun.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

For Rashford, it presents an opportunity to adapt and demonstrate his versatility as his quest continues for a consistent starting role.

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

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• adaptability