adaw2+ (ada)

[First used in 16th century; perhaps The sight whereof did greatly him adaw . Spenser, F. Q., III. vii. 13. susceptible of or undergoing accordant change. Much used in biology with reference to functional or physiological changes occasioned by variations of exter- ral conditions or environment, as opposed to homological . 2. To moderate; abate. See adaptation , 3. The adaptive power, that is, the faculty of adapting means to proximate ends. Cole ridge, Aids to Reflec., р. 178. The function of selective discrimination with the complementary power of adaptive response is regarded as the root-principle of mind. Science, IV. 17. In the greater number of Mammals, the bones a ume a very modified and adaptive position. W. H. Flower , Osteology, p. 242. These resemblances, though so intimately connected with the whole life of the being, are ranked as merely " adaptive or analogical characters.' Darwin, Origin of Species, p. 374. Gins to abate the brightne e of his be me, And fervour of his flames somewhat adaw . Spenser, F. Q., V. ix. 35. II. in trans. To become moderated or le vehement. Therewith her wrath full courage gan appall, And haughtie spirits meekely to adaw . Spenser, F. Q., IV. vi. 26.