maladaptive
|mal-a-dap-tive|
C1
/ˌmæl.əˈdæp.tɪv/
poor adaptation
Etymology
Etymology Information
'maladaptive' originates from the prefix 'mal-' meaning 'bad' or 'poor' and the word 'adaptive' from Latin 'adaptare', meaning 'to fit'.
Historical Evolution
'maladaptive' evolved from the combination of 'mal-' and 'adaptive', which was derived from the Latin 'adaptare'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'poorly adapted', and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not providing adequate adjustment'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not providing adequate or appropriate adjustment to the environment or situation.
His maladaptive behavior made it difficult for him to maintain relationships.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/05/10 04:14