# adaptive

> English word · Adjective · IPA /əˈdæp.tɪv/ · frequency rank #12,721

## Definitions
1. Of, pertaining to, characterized by or showing adaptation; making or made fit or suitable.
2. Capable of being adapted or of adapting; susceptible of or undergoing accordant change.
3. Of a trait: that helps an organism to function well in its environment.
4. Of a trait: that helps a person to function well in society.

## Etymology
From adapt + -ive.

## Easily confused with
- **additive** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/adaptive-vs-additive)
- **adoptive** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/adaptive-vs-adoptive)
- **adaption** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/adaption-vs-adaptive)

## Common misspellings (11)
`aadptive`, `adapitve`, `adapptive`, `adaptiev`, `adaptivve`, `adapttive`, `adaptvie`, `adatpive`, `addaptive`, `adpative`, `daaptive`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/adaptive