adaptive
/əˈdæp.tɪv/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
Of, pertaining to, characterized by or showing adaptation; making or made fit or suitable.
Adjective
Examples
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says it issued a final rule allowing what’s called “adaptive driving beam headlights” on new vehicles. It will go into effect when published in the Federal Register in the next few days.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
Capable of being adapted or of adapting; susceptible of or undergoing accordant change.
Adjective
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “adaptive” mean?
Of, pertaining to, characterized by or showing adaptation; making or made fit or suitable.
Is “adaptive” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.