WordGarden.ioagile
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈædʒaɪl/
US
- /ˈædʒəl/
Meanings
Adjective
able to move quickly, lightly, and easily
able to adapt or respond quickly to changing conditions
able to think quickly and respond intelligently
More meaningsFewer meanings
relating to Agile project or software-development methods built around iterative response to change
Beyond the definition
Think of a cat—graceful, quick, and able to change direction on a dime. That's agile. It describes something (or someone) that can move easily and quickly, but it also means being able to adapt to new situations with flexibility. In the world of software development, agile often refers to a way of working that prioritizes responding to change over following a rigid plan. You might describe a dancer as agile, or admire an agile mind capable of solving complex problems.
The word comes from the Latin agilis, meaning "active" or "swift." It's not just about physical speed; it's about mental and organizational quickness, too. A company that can quickly adjust to market changes is considered agile.
"Agile" originally described physical dexterity—the ability to move with ease and grace. Think of a gymnast performing a complex routine, or a mountain goat leaping across rocky terrain. They are agile because they're nimble, quick, and coordinated: "The dancer's agile movements captivated the audience."
However, in recent decades, "agile" has become particularly associated with project management, especially in software development. Agile methodologies emphasize iterative progress, collaboration, and a willingness to adapt to changing requirements. Instead of planning everything up front, an agile team often works in short cycles (often called "sprints" in frameworks like Scrum), constantly reviewing and adjusting their approach based on feedback. This allows them to deliver value quickly and respond effectively to unexpected challenges.
Beyond software, "agile" is used more broadly to describe any system or organization that can adapt rapidly to change. An agile business model might involve experimenting with new products and services, while an agile leader encourages innovation and empowers their team to make quick decisions.
So whether you're describing a physical skill, a work process, or a way of thinking, "agile" signifies the ability to move quickly, adapt easily, and thrive in a dynamic environment. It's about being responsive, flexible, and embracing change rather than resisting it.
Examples
- 1
Animal movement
The cat was so agile that it landed safely on the narrow wall.
- 2
Sports ability
Even in his sixties, he remained agile on the basketball court.
- 3
Quick thinking
She has an agile mind and can solve problems very quickly.
- 4
Business change
Small companies are often more agile than larger ones when the market changes.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Team planning
We need an agile team that can adjust its plans every week.
- Phraseagile team
a team that can change quickly when needed
- 6
Institutional response
The school is trying to become more agile in responding to students' needs.
- Patternagile in responding to + needs/problems
quick and flexible in dealing with them
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- agileadjective