English

Adjective

adaptive ‎(comparative more adaptive, superlative most adaptive)

1. Of, pertaining to, characterized by or showing adaptation; making or made fit or suitable.
   • 1859, Charles Darwin, The Origin of Species:

     The real affinities of all organic beings, in contradistinction to their adaptive resemblances, are due to inheritance or community of descent.

   • 1896, C. Lloyd Morgan, On Modification and Variation:

     That variation of germinal origin is a fact in organic nature is admitted on all hands, and that some variations are adaptive is also unquestioned.

2. Capable of being adapted or of adapting; susceptible of or undergoing accordant change.
3. (psychology) Of a trait: that helps an individual to function well in society.

Synonyms

• (capable of being adapted): adaptable
• adaptative

Derived terms

Related terms

Translations

References

• adaptive in The Century Dictionary, The Century Co., New York, 1911

French

Adjective

adaptive

1. feminine singular of adaptif