preadaptation

noun

pre·​ad·​ap·​ta·​tion ˌprē-ˌa-ˌdap-ˈtā-shən 

: a character or the condition of possessing a character that takes on a function when none previously existed or that differs from its original function : exaptation

This principle of evolution is sometimes called preadaptation. There's no foresight involved, though—simply the lucky coincidence that a feature that evolved to do one thing may turn out later to do another thing even better.

—Carl Zimmer

Note: While the newer term exaptation has been widely adopted, preadaptation continues to be acceptable in current usage with both terms showing comparable frequency of usage.

preadapted

ˌprē-ə-ˈdap-təd 

adjective

One hypothesis is that hot-blooded dinosaurs were clothed with feathers for insulation and were therefore preadapted for flight.

—Alan Feduccia

preadaptive

ˌprē-ə-ˈdap-tiv 

adjective

preadaptive structures

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above