adaptable

adjective

adapt·​able ə-ˈdap-tə-bəl 

a-

: capable of being or becoming adapted

plants that are easily adaptable to colder climates

adaptability

ə-ˌdap-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

a-

noun

Synonyms of adaptable

• versatile

Choose the Right Synonym for adaptable

plastic, pliable, pliant, ductile, malleable, adaptable mean susceptible of being modified in form or nature.

plastic applies to substances soft enough to be molded yet capable of hardening into the desired fixed form.

plastic materials allow the sculptor greater freedom

pliable suggests something easily bent, folded, twisted, or manipulated.

pliable rubber tubing

pliant may stress flexibility and sometimes connote springiness.

an athletic shoe with a pliant sole

ductile applies to what can be drawn out or extended with ease.

ductile metals such as copper

malleable applies to what may be pressed or beaten into shape.

the malleable properties of gold

adaptable implies the capability of being easily modified to suit other conditions, needs, or uses.

computer hardware that is adaptable

Examples of adaptable in a Sentence

an adaptable tool that combines a screwdriver, a corkscrew, and pliers

an activities director who's adaptable to any kind of situation

Recent Examples on the Web

In a recent publication, the Boston Consulting Group emphasized how AI transformation fundamentally reshapes workforce needs, requiring organizations to build adaptable capabilities instead of narrow skill sets tied to specific roles. —Michael Edmondson, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026

Over time, kids who develop strong people skills also tend to become more flexible, adaptable, and self-reflective. —Kelsey Mora, CNBC, 24 May 2026

Mulberry trees themselves are easy to grow and adaptable. —Samantha Johnson, Martha Stewart, 23 May 2026

According to reports, Havoc Spear is a 200-pound-class, mission-adaptable weapon that demonstrated a standoff range of more than 400 nautical miles. —Abhishek Bhardwaj, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

adapt + -able

First Known Use

1692, in the meaning defined above