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

But Parker has also taken a few creative liberties and made adaptational alterations — including a key conversation that the showrunner now regrets leaving out. —Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Feb. 2026

But for Bashara, the most important aspects to consider in assessing potential are the home’s foundation, roof, and the extent of previous alterations. —Staff Author, Southern Living, 13 Feb. 2026

The design of the mikvah was approved with another long list of conditions including things like alterations on the type of window glass, exterior lighting, facade materials and landscaping. —Lauren Costantino february 11, Miami Herald, 11 Feb. 2026

The Usher’s Office located the shop’s owner, who opened his shop that evening and made alterations on a morning suit using Dad’s measurements. —John Wrory Ficklin, Time, 11 Feb. 2026

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