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
Examples of adaptation in a Sentence
His stage adaptation of the novel was a success.
The film is an adaptation of a book of the same title.
The insect's evolutionary adaptations enable it to be almost invisible even when sitting in the middle of a leaf.
a tool designed for easy adaptation
Recent Examples on the Web
Gain Real-World Skills Faster Modern employers seek initiative, creative solutions, and adaptation—attributes not typically developed in entry-level roles.
—
Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025
And then, last September, Grant Heslov and George Clooney asked her to participate in a two-day workshop for their forthcoming adaptation of their 2005 film Good Night, and Good Luck.
—Seija Rankin, HollywoodReporter, 15 Apr. 2025
The Penzance Musical, the non-prof Roundabout Theatre Company’s production of Rupert Holmes’ new adaptation of the Gilbert & Sullivan classic starring Ramin Karimloo, Jinkx Monsoon, David Hyde Pierce and Nicholas Barasch, was at 96% of capacity at the Haimes, grossing $417,964 for seven previews.
—Greg Evans, Deadline, 15 Apr. 2025
Many commentators compared it to other adaptations like The Lego Movie or The Super Mario Bros. Movie, noting that the success would depend heavily on the quality of the adaptation.
—Tribune Content Agency, Mercury News, 15 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for adaptation
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Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025
And then, last September, Grant Heslov and George Clooney asked her to participate in a two-day workshop for their forthcoming adaptation of their 2005 film Good Night, and Good Luck.
—Seija Rankin, HollywoodReporter, 15 Apr. 2025
The Penzance Musical, the non-prof Roundabout Theatre Company’s production of Rupert Holmes’ new adaptation of the Gilbert & Sullivan classic starring Ramin Karimloo, Jinkx Monsoon, David Hyde Pierce and Nicholas Barasch, was at 96% of capacity at the Haimes, grossing $417,964 for seven previews.
—Greg Evans, Deadline, 15 Apr. 2025
Many commentators compared it to other adaptations like The Lego Movie or The Super Mario Bros. Movie, noting that the success would depend heavily on the quality of the adaptation.
—Tribune Content Agency, Mercury News, 15 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for adaptation
Cite this Entry
“Adaptation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adaptation. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
adaptation
noun
ad·ap·ta·tion
ˌad-ˌap-ˈtā-shən
-əp-
1
a
: the act or process of adapting
b
: the state of being adapted
2
: adjustment to environmental conditions: as
a
: adjustment of a sense organ to the degree or quality of stimulation
b
: change in an organism or its parts that fits it better for the conditions of its environment
also
: a structure resulting from this change
3
: something that is adapted
especially
: a composition rewritten into a new form
adaptationally
adverb
-ē
Medical Definition
adaptation
noun
ad·ap·ta·tion
ˌad-ˌap-ˈtā-shən, -əp-
1
2
: adjustment to environmental conditions: 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 compare adjustment sense 1b
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