adaptation

Pronunciation: ad′ap-tā′shŭn

Definition:

1. Preferential survival of members of a species because of a phenotype that enhances their capacity to withstand the environment, including the ecology.
2. An advantageous change in function or constitution of an organ or tissue to meet new conditions.
3. Adjustment of the sensitivity of the retina to light intensity.
4. A property of certain sensory receptors that modifies the response to repeated or continued stimuli at constant intensity.
5. The fitting, condensing, or contouring of a restorative material, foil, or shell to a tooth or cast to ensure close contact.
6. The dynamic process by which the thoughts, feelings, behavior, and biophysiologic mechanisms of the person continually adjust to a constantly changing environment.
7. A homeostatic response.

See: development1, equilibration5

Synonym(s): adjustment2

[L. ad-apto, pp. -atus, to adjust]

Search Stedman's Medical Dictionary