Entry 1 sense Webster, 1913 Adaptive /əd-ăp'-tĭv/ · A·dapt·ive · IPA /əˈdæp.tɪv/ 01 a. Suited, given, or tending, to adaptation; characterized by adaptation; capable of adapting. 1. Suited, given, or tending, to adaptation; characterized by adaptation; capable of adapting.