Acclinate

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To modify biological or physiological traits in response to new environmental conditions is critical for survival
2. To undergo a process of adjustment in order to thrive in differing environmental conditions is vital for many organisms
3. To undergo changes in physical or biological functions to better suit a changed environment

Etymology: In Latin, "acclinare" meant "to lean or bend toward," built from "ad-" ("toward") and "clinare" ("to bend, incline"). That same root gives English "incline" and "recline." English borrowed the verb "acclinate" with its literal sense of leaning toward something, and it stayed rare. The sense "adjust to an environment" is the surprise. It belongs to a different word family. "Acclimate" comes from French "acclimater," formed from "à" ("to") and "climat" ("climate"), and it means to become used to a new climate or setting. "Acclinate" looks and sounds close to it, so the two have probably blended in some later uses. For most purposes, "acclimate" is the form to use for adapting to surroundings.

Synonyms: adapt, acclimatize, adjust, become accustomed, get used

Antonyms: reject, resist, refuse, struggle, oppose