ENGLISH
REFERENCE

versatile

adj.
US //ˈvɝsətəɫ// UK //vˈɜːsətˌaɪl// ver·sa·tile
  1. 1 having many uses (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    useful in many different ways or for many different purposes.

    having varied uses or many functions; highly adaptable to different tasks or environments.

    Example

    Eggs are a versatile ingredient because you can use them in both sweet and savoury dishes.

    Example

    The new software proved to be a versatile tool, allowing the design team to manage both complex 3D rendering and simple vector illustrations within a single interface.
  2. 2 having many skills (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    able to do many different things well.

    capable of performing many different tasks or roles competently.

    Example

    She is a versatile athlete who competes in both swimming and running.

    Example

    The director sought a versatile actor capable of transitioning seamlessly from light-hearted physical comedy to intense, emotionally demanding dramatic scenes.
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  1. 3 moving freely (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    able to move easily in any direction.

    capable of moving freely in all directions, such as an organ or an animal's appendage.

    Example

    Some birds have versatile toes that help them grip branches easily.

    Example

    The versatile antennae of the insect allow it to detect chemical signals from multiple directions simultaneously while navigating dense undergrowth.
Origin

From Latin versātilis (“turning easily”), from versātus, past participle of versō (“I turn, change”), frequentative of vertō (“I turn”).

Word family

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