as in versatile
able to do many different kinds of things
a protean actor who is equally comfortable with light comedy and serious drama
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Recent Examples of protean
Ballet Hispánico is at the top of its game here, and Lopez Ochoa displays the dancers’ silken, protean talents beautifully.
—
Sarah L. Kaufman, Washington Post, 1 Dec. 2022
From its opening of a cassette clicking into a deck, FKA Twigs’ 17-track mixtape takes us through a protean universe of dancehall, trap-flecked R&B, and dreamy pop that skirts the mainstream to stay inventive.
—Spin Staff, SPIN, 26 Dec. 2022
When not composing operas, orchestral works or chamber pieces, Tyshawn Sorey is a protean drummer and band leader.
—San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Dec. 2022
Even assessments of subjectivity are protean and...subjective!
—Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 30 July 2013
See All Example Sentences for protean
Sarah L. Kaufman, Washington Post, 1 Dec. 2022
From its opening of a cassette clicking into a deck, FKA Twigs’ 17-track mixtape takes us through a protean universe of dancehall, trap-flecked R&B, and dreamy pop that skirts the mainstream to stay inventive.
—Spin Staff, SPIN, 26 Dec. 2022
When not composing operas, orchestral works or chamber pieces, Tyshawn Sorey is a protean drummer and band leader.
—San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Dec. 2022
Even assessments of subjectivity are protean and...subjective!
—Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 30 July 2013
See All Example Sentences for protean
Recent Examples of Synonyms for protean
Adjective
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With their slightly smoky flavor and medium heat level, these peppers are highly versatile.—
Elena Valeriote,
Forbes.com,
16 June 2025
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This purse is versatile, featuring interchangeable straps.—
Rebecca Jones,
Southern Living,
16 June 2025
Adjective
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The offices that thrive in this new phase will be those that establish clear and adaptable roles, cultivate a culture of institutional memory, and utilize technology and partnerships to maximize the potential of small, high-impact teams.—
Francois Botha,
Forbes.com,
15 June 2025
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The more adaptable the schedule, the more positively employees view their company’s policies, the Cisco report also found.—
Jessica Dickler,
CNBC,
13 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Protean.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/protean. Accessed 19 Jun. 2025.
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