Obs. [f. prec. adj.: cf. fit, to fit.]
1. To make fit, adapt (to), prepare suitably (for).
1575. Laneham, Lett. (1871), 35. A song wel apted too a melodious noiz.
1582. Stanyhurst, Æneis (Arb.), 38. In mydst of chaumber thee roume for bancket is apted.
1601. B. Jonson, Poetaster, I. i. He shall follow and observe what I will apt him to.
1672. Dk. Buckhm., Rehearsal, II. v. Composing this Air, and apting it for the business.
b. refl.
1540. Raynald, Birth Man., I. x. (1634), 37. The matter … inclining and apting it selfe … to the … nature of the vessels.
1633. Massinger, New Way, etc., III. ii. Apt thyself To the noble state I labour to advance thee.
2. intr. (for refl.) To suit, be suitable or fitting.
1602. Warner, Alb. Eng., IX. xliv. (1612), 212. Here occasion apteth that we catalogue a while. Ibid., Epit. Out of which I … have gleaned not a little apting to this our abridged Historie.
3. trans. To incline, dispose to.
a. 1625. Fletcher, Love’s Pilgr., II. iii. (T.). They are things ignorant, And therefore apted to that disposition Of doting fondness.
1641. Denham, Sophy, II. (1667), 19. The king is melancholy, Apted for any ill impressions.
