alternative

¹al·ter·na·tive

adj \ȯl-ˈtər-nə-tiv, al-\

Definition of ALTERNATIVE

1

: alternate 1

2

: offering or expressing a choice <several alternative plans>

3

: different from the usual or conventional: as a : existing or functioning outside the established cultural, social, or economic system <an alternative newspaper> <alternative lifestyles> b : of, relating to, or being rock music that is regarded as an alternative to conventional rock and is typically influenced by punk rock, hard rock, hip-hop, or folk music c : of or relating to alternative medicine <alternative therapies>

— al·ter·na·tive·ly adverb

— al·ter·na·tive·ness noun

Examples of ALTERNATIVE

1. Scientists are developing an alternative approach to treating the disease.
2. He developed an alternative design for the new engine.

First Known Use of ALTERNATIVE

1540