English Dictionary

Definition of “adaptation

adaptation (ˌædəpˈteɪʃənPronunciation for adaptation;ˌædæp-) 

Definitions

noun

  1. the act or process of adapting or the state of being adapted; adjustment
  2. something that is produced by adapting something else
  3. something that is changed or modified to suit new conditions or needs
  4. biology an inherited or acquired modification in organisms that makes them better suited to survive and reproduce in a particular environment
  5. physiology the decreased response of a sense organ to a repeated or sustained stimulus
  6. psychology (in learning theory) the weakening of a response to a stimulus with repeated presentation of the stimulus without reinforcement; applied mainly to innate responses
  7. social welfare alteration to a dwelling to make it suitable for a disabled person, as by replacing steps with ramps

Usage examples

  • The sleep deprivation, the poisons, the relentless behavioural adaptation -- it all exacts a toll.
    Edward Docx, THE CALLIGRAPHER (2003)
  • This slows the process of adaptation , setting an evolutionary `speed limit".
    New Scientist (1999)
  • Our players have to make that adaptation to the [small NHL rinks].
    Globe and Mail (2003)
  • He didn't venerate tradition and planned to use popular culture in his adaptation , setting the play in Verona beach.
    Glasgow Herald (2001)
  • Air currents carry the fruits or seeds which usually show an adaptation to increase surface area.
    McCahill, T. A., Biology Basic Facts (1982)

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