alteration

noun

al·​ter·​a·​tion ˌȯl-tə-ˈrā-shən 

plural alterations

1

: the act or process of altering something

The dress needs alteration for a proper fit.

: the state of being altered

2

: the result of changing or altering something: such as

a

: a change made in fitting a garment

no charge for alterations

b

: a change in a legal instrument that alters its legal effect

She made some alterations to her will.

c

: a mineral that has been altered by a chemical process : metasomatism

Synonyms of alteration

• change
• difference
• modification

Examples of alteration in a Sentence

the alteration of the pattern

They did a good job on the dress alteration.

He made alterations in his will.

Recent Examples on the Web

The hem often falls well below where it’s supposed to, requiring alterations that are time-consuming and add to the cost. —Shea Simmons, PEOPLE, 15 Nov. 2025

The automaker has experimented with the body style, creating several trims that make dramatic alterations to the small truck's design and characteristics. —Charles Singh, USA Today, 14 Nov. 2025

League officials continue to work on potential changes to the format of competition, which like the scheduling alterations would roll out in 2027. —Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 13 Nov. 2025

Koop was responsible for conducting research, calling in clothing, presenting her vision to Obama, and then executing the final look with all the alterations and preparation that were needed. —Sam Reed, Glamour, 12 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English alteracioun "change, transformation," borrowed from Anglo-French & Medieval Latin; Anglo-French alteracion, borrowed from Medieval Latin alterātiōn-, alterātiō, from Late Latin alterāre "to change, alter" + Latin -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for alteration

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

alteration

noun

al·​ter·​ation ˌȯl-tə-ˈrā-shən 

1

a

: the act or process of altering

b

: the state of being altered

2

: the result of altering : modification