From Bioblast
Description
Adaptation is an evolutionary time scale expression of phenotypic plasticity in response to selective pressures prevailing under various habitat conditions.
Abbreviation: n.a.
Reference: Hochachka, Somero 2002
Compare
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adaptation
"In biology, the process by which an animal or plant becomes fitted to its environment. It is the result of natural selection acting on inherited variation. Even simple organisms must be adapted in many ways, including structure, physiology, and genetics; movement or dispersal; means of defense and attack; and reproduction and development. To be useful, adaptations must often occur simultaneously in different parts of the body."