versatile
ver·sa·tile
adj\ˈvər-sə-təl, especially British -ˌtī(-ə)l\
Definition of VERSATILE
1
: changing or fluctuating readily : variable <a versatile disposition>
2
: embracing a variety of subjects, fields, or skills; also : turning with ease from one thing to another
3
a (1) : capable of turning forward or backward : reversible <a versatile toe of a bird> (2) : capable of moving laterally and up and down <versatile antennae> b of an anther : having the filaments attached at or near the middle so as to swing freely
4
: having many uses or applications <versatile building material>
— ver·sa·tile·ly\-təl-(l)ē, -ˌtī(-ə)l-lē\ adverb
— ver·sa·tile·ness\-təl-nəs, -ˌtī(-ə)l-nəs\ noun
Examples of VERSATILE
- She is a versatile athlete who participates in many different sports.
- A pocketknife is a versatile tool.
Origin of VERSATILE
French or Latin; French, from Latin versatilis turning easily, from versare to turn, frequentative of vertere
First Known Use: 1605
Related to VERSATILE
Related Words: general-purpose, mixed-use, multipurpose; well-rounded; able, ace, adept, experienced, expert, masterful, proficient, skilled, skillful; adjustable, alterable, changeable, elastic, flexible, fluid, malleable, modifiable, plastic, pliable, pliant, supple, variable
Rhymes with VERSATILE
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