Adaptive design refers to a design approach where multiple fixed layout designs are created for different screen sizes or device types. In an adaptive interface, the system detects the user’s device (e.g., mobile, tablet, desktop) and delivers the pre-designed layout optimized for that device. This means the website or app doesn’t have a single fluid layout; instead, it has distinct versions (e.g., a specific mobile layout and a specific desktop layout) that adapt to the user’s context. Adaptive design contrasts with Responsive Design (see entry under “R”), which uses one flexible layout that reflows dynamically. For example, a travel website might have an adaptive design that shows a simplified navigation and larger buttons on mobile (touch devices) and a more detailed layout on desktop, ensuring usability tailored to each device.