protean

adjective

ˈprō-tē-ən How to pronounce protean (audio)
Definition of proteannext
as in versatile
able to do many different kinds of things a protean actor who is equally comfortable with light comedy and serious drama

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of protean His beliefs and artistic inclinations were protean and often contradictory. — Vince Passaro, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025 Davis spent his career sounding the depths of his protean creativity. — Helena Alonso Paisley, Miami Herald, 4 Nov. 2025 Adding to the otherworldly ambience is the shifting jazz-folk score by Mary Komasa and Antoni Łazarkiewicz, which, like our hero, is similarly protean in nature. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 25 Sep. 2025 Mastro’s and Zhou’s books could hardly be more different, but both authors’ perspectives shed light on the still protean multipolar world that is being shaped by the competition between Washington and Beijing. — Oriana Skylar Mastro, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for protean
Recent Examples of Synonyms for protean
  1. versatile
  2. adaptable
Adjective
  • The club see him as a versatile player who fits their tactical system and possesses significant potential.
    — Tim Spiers, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026
  • From anti-theft purses that look like chic handbags to polished trousers that feel more like comfy sweatpants, these styles are versatile, functional, and comfortable to boot—and prices start at just $8.
    — Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of versatile
Adjective
  • The obvious comparison with Anthony Gordon has been made by pundits and there are parallels with the adaptable forward Newcastle sold to Barcelona in May for up to €80million.
    — Chris Waugh, New York Times, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Whether dressed up with a blazer or kept casual with a tank top, jorts are adaptable, which is a major part of their appeal.
    — BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of adaptable

Browse Nearby Words

protagonists
protean
protect
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Cite this Entry

“Protean.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/protean. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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