adaptation
noun
ad·ap·ta·tion
ˌa-ˌdap-ˈtā-shən
-dəp-
1
: something that is adapted
a new adaptation of an old recipe
specifically
: a composition rewritten into a new form
a screen adaptation of a novel
2
: the act or process of adapting
a process undergoing adaptation
: the state of being adapted
adaptation to changing circumstances
3
: adjustment to environmental conditions: such as
a
: adjustment of a sense organ to the intensity or quality of stimulation
b
: modification of an organism or its parts that makes it more fit for existence under the conditions of its environment : a heritable physical or behavioral trait that serves a specific function and improves an organism's fitness or survival
adaptationally
adverb
Cite this Entry
“Adaptation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adaptation. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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