# adaptability

/əˌdæptəˈbɪɫəti/ (US) · /ɐdˌæptəbˈɪlɪti/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/adaptability
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

the ability to change or adjust to new conditions. In biology, it means how well a living thing can survive in different environments.

For teachers: the capacity to adjust to new, different, or changing environments or circumstances. In a biological context, it refers to the ability of an organism to survive and reproduce in varying environmental conditions.

## Examples

- The plant shows great adaptability to dry soil.
- The success of the species depends on its adaptability to the shifting climate patterns of the region.
- Evolutionary biologists often study the genetic basis of adaptability, examining how specific traits allow a population to thrive when their primary food source becomes scarce.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.