Accommodate Meaning

UK /əˈkɒmədeɪt/
US /əˈkɑːmədeɪt/
Word Definition
accommodate meaning

Accommodate Definition & Usage

verb

To provide space or facilities for someone or something; to fit in or adapt to someone's needs.

Examples

  • "The hotel can accommodate up to 200 guests."
  • "This meeting room is large enough to accommodate all the attendees."
  • "We need to accommodate the new changes to the schedule."
  • "Can you accommodate me with a seat at the table?"
  • "The restaurant was able to accommodate our last-minute reservation."
verb

To adapt or adjust one's behavior or actions in order to meet the needs or preferences of others.

Examples

  • "She tried to accommodate her colleagues by altering her schedule."
  • "In order to maintain a peaceful environment, we must learn to accommodate others."
  • "The host made sure to accommodate everyone’s dietary restrictions at the party."
  • "They will accommodate you if you have special requests for your stay."
  • "He was willing to accommodate his friend’s wishes, even though it was inconvenient."
verb

To make or design something to fit the needs or specifications of a user or a situation.

Examples

  • "The new software was developed to accommodate a wider range of devices."
  • "The vehicle was specially designed to accommodate four passengers comfortably."
  • "They upgraded the system to accommodate the increasing traffic on the website."
  • "This machine accommodates different types of materials for processing."
  • "The building’s layout accommodates various uses, including offices and retail spaces."

Cultural Context

The word 'accommodate' comes from the Latin 'accommodare', meaning to adjust or make suitable. It has a broad application, often involving physical or social adjustment to make a space or situation suitable for someone or something. In modern usage, it can refer to anything from hotel accommodations to social adjustments and even technical design.

The Meeting at Millbrook

Story

The Meeting at Millbrook

At Millbrook Conference Center, everything was prepared for the grand meeting, yet it seemed that a few things had been overlooked. Sarah, the event planner, stood in front of a group of surprised guests. 'We're going to have to accommodate a few last-minute changes,' she announced with a smile. The room, which was set for 30 people, was now overflowing with double the number of attendees. Thankfully, Sarah had anticipated such problems. She quickly moved to adjust the seating arrangements. Within minutes, extra chairs were brought in, and the conference started on time. Later, at lunch, a guest raised her hand. 'I’m vegetarian. I hope the meal can accommodate that.' Sarah nodded and motioned to the waiter to make sure her special dietary needs were met. It wasn’t just the food that needed accommodation—Sarah had also arranged separate quiet spaces for attendees who required a more focused atmosphere. As the day wore on, the group's needs seemed to grow. Some guests had forgotten to bring important documents, others needed special technical equipment. Each time, Sarah adapted quickly. 'Don’t worry,' she reassured the guest with the broken laptop, 'we’ll accommodate you with the necessary tools.' By the end of the meeting, even the CEO came over to thank her. 'You’ve certainly accommodated every possible need today, Sarah. I’m impressed.' As she walked through the empty conference rooms later, Sarah thought about the word 'accommodate' and how fitting it was. It wasn’t just about providing space—it was about making sure everyone felt considered, valued, and comfortable. For Sarah, this was the true meaning of the word. As the evening sun set over Millbrook, she looked forward to the next day’s challenges, knowing she would find a way to accommodate whatever came her way.

The Meeting at Millbrook