Adaptation
/ˌæd.æpˈteɪ.ʃən/noun
The process of changing to fit new conditions, or a modified version of something.
Did you know?It entered English through French and Latin long before Darwin made it famous, and its deeper root is tied to the same ancient family that gave us words about fitting, joining, and being adjusted to place.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*dap-
“to fit, be suitable”
Latin
Latin
aptus
“fit, suitable, fastened”
Late Latin
Latin
adaptare
“to fit to, adjust”
Old French
Old French
adaptacion
“the act of adapting or adjusting”
Middle English
English
adaptacioun
“adjustment or fitting to purpose”
Modern English
English
adaptation
“the process of changing to suit new conditions or a new use”