Versatile
Able to adapt or be used for many different purposes; capable of doing many different things well.
adjectiveVersatile
Able to adapt or be used for many different purposes; capable of doing many different things well.
adjectiveImagine This
Imagine a Swiss Army knife that instantly morphs into a screwdriver, a scissors, a bottle opener, and a ruler—each tool ready to tackle whatever task comes up. That single object is versatile because it can adapt to many different jobs.
Sounds Like
VER-suh-tyl
Looks Like
Looks like other versatile words with broad meaning (e.g., universal, flexible) and contains the root vers- suggesting turning or turning to many uses.
Remember This
Versatile comes from the Latin versatilis, from vertere 'to turn' + -ilis 'able to be.' The word emphasizes breadth of use, not just proficiency in one narrow area.
Other Forms
Connect With
adaptable, flexible, multipurpose, all-purpose, resourceful
Note
Do not confuse versatile with specialized. Versatile describes breadth and adaptability; specialized describes depth in one specific area. Also, avoid overusing in contexts that imply only general usefulness; choose precise synonyms when nuance matters.