conform

/kənˈfɔərm/

/kənˈfɔm/

Other forms: conformed; conforming; conforms

To conform means to adapt to fit in with new conditions. So if you travel to Morocco, you should conform to the local custom and adjust your usual wardrobe to one that is more modest.

Sometimes conform gets a bad rap, carrying with it the sense of compromising one’s individuality to fit in or please others. But take note that it doesn’t always have to carry such a negative charge. For example, the manager of a factory that produces bouncy balls would want each ball that came off his conveyor belts to conform to a high standard of durability, bounciness, and roundness.

Definitions of conform

1. verb

   be similar, be in line with
   antonyms:

   deviate

   be at variance with; be out of line with

   types:

   scan

   conform to a metrical pattern
2. verb

   adapt or conform oneself to new or different conditions
   synonyms: adapt, adjust

   types:

   readapt, readjust

   adjust anew

   readapt

   adapt anew

   assimilate

   become similar to one's environment

   focalise, focalize, focus

   become focussed or come into focus

   acclimate, acclimatise, acclimatize

   get used to a certain climate

   match

   be equal or harmonize

   obey

   be obedient to

   square

   cause to match, as of ideas or acts

   acculturate

   assimilate culturally

   abide by, comply, follow

   act in accordance with someone's rules, commands, or wishes

   take orders

   receive and be expected to follow directions or commands

   heed, listen, mind

   pay close attention to; give heed to

   type of:

   change

   undergo a change; become different in essence; losing one's or its original nature