Word a Day
protean
What does protean mean?
protean (adjective): exceedingly variable; readily assuming different shapes or forms.
Definition: Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
How do you use protean in a sentence?
- An amoeba is a protean animalcule. (Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0)
Where does protean come from?
From Proteus + -an, referring to the Greek warden of sea-beasts, renowned for his ability to change shape.
Etymology: Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Test yourself: do you know “protean”?
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What does “protean” mean?
strange, and mysteriously unsettling (as if supernatural); weird
Not quite: that's what uncanny means.
exceedingly variable; readily assuming different shapes or forms
Right! That's what “protean” means.
short and thick; as e.g. having short legs and heavy musculature
Not quite: that's what chunky means.
troublesome, cheeky, badly behaved, impish, naughty, disobedient
Not quite: that's what mischievous means.
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