protean

Meaning

Adj

1. Exceedingly variable; readily assuming different shapes or forms.
2. (alt-of) Alternative letter-case form of Protean (of or relating to Proteus).

Noun

A protein that has been slightly modified by water, dilute acid, or enzymes, but not modified to the extent of a metaprotein.

Synonyms

changeable

inconstant

mutable

variable

mercurial

multiform

chameleonic

polymorphic

pleomorphic

variform

changing

fickle

varying

Translations

protéiforme

changeant

proteusartig

proteisch

ευμετάβλητος

πρωτεϊκός

instable

variable

protéique

proteiforme

voortdurend

veelzijdig

veelvormig

wisselvallig

veranderend

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˈpɹəʊ.tɪ.ən/

Etymology

From Ancient Greek Πρωτεύς (Prōteús, literally “first”), the Greek warden of sea-beasts, renowned for his ability to change shape.