adaptation

The definition of an adaptation is a change or adjustment to improve something, or to make it suitable to a different situation.

(noun)

A wheelchair ramp built into a mini van is an example of an adaptation.

See adaptation in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

an adapting or being adapted
a thing resulting from adapting: this play is an adaptation of a novel
a change in structure, function, or form that improves the chance of survival for an animal or plant within a given environment
the natural reactions of a sense organ to variations in the degree of stimulation
Sociology a gradual change in behavior to conform to the prevailing cultural patterns

Origin: Fr < ML adaptatio: see adapt

Related Forms:

See adaptation in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. The act or process of adapting.
b. The state of being adapted.
a. Something, such as a device or mechanism, that is changed or changes so as to become suitable to a new or special application or situation.
b. A composition that has been recast into a new form: The play is an adaptation of a short novel.
Biology An alteration or adjustment in structure or habits, often hereditary, by which a species or individual improves its condition in relationship to its environment.
Physiology The responsive adjustment of a sense organ, such as the eye, to varying conditions, such as light intensity.
Change in behavior of a person or group in response to new or modified surroundings.

Related Forms: