The ability to move quickly and easily, changing direction or position with speed and control. It combines balance, coordination, speed, and reflexes to navigate obstacles or respond to changing situations.
From Latin 'agilis' meaning 'easily moved, nimble' from 'agere' meaning 'to drive, move.' The word entered English in the 14th century, initially describing mental quickness before extending to physical dexterity.
Agility training was revolutionized by NFL coaches in the 1960s who noticed that the best players weren't always the fastest in straight lines—they were the ones who could cut, dodge, and pivot without losing speed! Modern agility ladders and cone drills are now standard across all sports.
In leadership/tech discourse, 'agility' often coded as masculine (quick, aggressive adaptation); feminine-coded traits like 'adaptability' or 'responsiveness' are parallel but devalued.
Use 'agility' inclusively; pair with other adaptive traits (empathy, listening, collaboration) to avoid masculine-only framing of organizational response.
["adaptability","responsiveness","flexibility"]
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