Adaptation
ad-ap-TAY-shun
/ˌædæpˈteɪʃən/
The process of adjusting to new conditions; in biology, a trait that helps an organism survive and reproduce in its environment.
In climate science, it refers to strategies for coping with the unavoidable impacts of climate change.
The story behind the word. The word 'Adaptation' comes from the Latin verb 'adaptare,' which means 'to fit to' or 'to adjust.' This root combines 'ad-' (to) and 'aptare' (to fit). In English, it first appeared in the 17th century, initially referring to the act of fitting one thing to another. Later, in the 19th century, it gained its biological meaning through the work of naturalists like Charles Darwin, describing how organisms adjust to their environments over generations.
Word relationships
- Adjustment: Adjustment is a more general term for making small changes to fit a situation. Adaptation implies a more fundamental or systemic change, often over time.
- Accommodation: Similar to adjustment, often implying making allowances or providing what is needed, but less about an organism's inherent change.
- Maladaptation: An adaptation that is more harmful than helpful, or one that is no longer suitable for the environment.
Commonly confused with
- Mitigation: Adaptation deals with adjusting to the effects of climate change, while mitigation deals with reducing its causes.
Word family
- Adapt (verb): To make (something) suitable for a new use or purpose; to modify.
- Adaptive (adjective): Able to adjust to new conditions.
Collocations
- climate adaptation
- adaptation strategies
- social adaptation
- biological adaptation
- cultural adaptation
Example sentences
- "Building sea walls and developing drought-resistant crops are examples of climate change adaptation measures." Discussing climate change strategies.
- "The camel's hump is a remarkable adaptation that allows it to store fat and survive in desert conditions." Describing biological evolution.
Memory hook
Think 'ADAPT' – you 'ADD' things to 'APT' (fit) yourself to a new situation. Adjust and Fit
When not to use
Avoid using it for simple changes that don't involve a significant adjustment to a new or altered environment.
Fun facts
- The concept of adaptation is central to the theory of evolution by natural selection.
Related words
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