1. adapting: the process or state of changing to fit a new environment or different conditions, or the resulting change
2. something adapted to fit need: something that has been modified to suit different conditions or a different purpose a film adaptation of a novel
3. biology change to suit environment: the development of physical and behavioral characteristics that allow organisms to survive and reproduce in their habitats
4. physiology diminishing sensory response: the diminishing response of a sense organ to a sustained stimulus
[Early 17th century. Via French< late Latin adaptation-< Latin adaptare (see adapt)]