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REFERENCE

adaptive

adj.
US //əˈdæptɪv// UK //ɐdˈæptɪv// adap·tive
  1. 1 flexible and changing (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    able to change or be changed to suit different conditions.

    capable of undergoing modification or adjustment to remain effective in varying circumstances.

    Example

    The company uses adaptive software that changes based on how the customer uses it.

    Example

    The organization implemented an adaptive management strategy, allowing project leaders to pivot their tactics as new market data became available.
  2. 2 helpful for survival (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    describes a behavior or physical trait that helps a living thing survive in its environment.

    relating to a trait or behavior that increases an organism's fitness or ability to function within a specific ecological niche.

    Example

    The white fur of a polar bear is an adaptive trait for living in the snow.

    Example

    Biologists argue that certain social behaviors in primates are adaptive, as they significantly increase the survival rate of offspring within the troop.
    • maladaptive
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  1. 3 socially functional (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Psychology

    describes a person's ability to handle the demands of daily life and get along with others.

    pertaining to behaviors that allow an individual to meet the standards of personal independence and social responsibility expected for their age and cultural group.

    Example

    The therapist helped the patient develop more adaptive ways to deal with stress.

    Example

    The study focused on adaptive coping mechanisms, contrasting them with avoidant behaviors that often exacerbate long-term psychological distress.
Origin

From adapt + -ive.

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