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Definition of protean - 7 dictionary results

pro⋅te⋅an

[proh-tee-uhn, proh-tee-]
–adjective
1. readily assuming different forms or characters; extremely variable.
2. changeable in shape or form, as an amoeba.
3. (of an actor or actress) versatile; able to play many kinds of roles.
4. (initial capital letter) of, pertaining to, or suggestive of Proteus.

Origin:
1590–1600; Prote(us) + -an


pro⋅te⋅an⋅ism, noun
pro·te·an   (prō'tē-ən, prō-tē'-)   
adj.  
  1. Readily taking on varied shapes, forms, or meanings.
  2. Exhibiting considerable variety or diversity: "He loved to show off his protean talent" (William A. Henry III).

[From Proteus.]

Protean

Pro"te*an\, a. 1. Of or pertaining to Proteus; characteristic of Proteus. " Protean transformations." --Cudworth.

2. Exceedingly variable; readily assuming different shapes or forms; as, an am[oe]ba is a protean animalcule.

Protean 
1598, from Gk. Proteus, sea god (son of Oceanus and Tethys) who could change his form; his name is lit. "first," from protos "first."

Main Entry: 1pro·te·an
Pronunciation: 'prOt-E-&n, prO-'tE-
Function: adjective
: displaying great diversity or variety protean in its manifestations —Lancet>

Main Entry: 2pro·te·an
Pronunciation: 'prOt-E-&n
Function: noun
: any of various insoluble primary protein derivatives thatresult from a slight modification of the protein molecule especially by the action of water, very dilute acids, or enzymes

protean pro·te·an (prō'tē-ən, prō-tē'-)
adj.
Readily taking on varied shapes, forms, or meanings.

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