variegation

noun

var·​ie·​ga·​tion ˌver-ē-ə-ˈgā-shən 

ˌver-i-ˈgā-

: the act of variegating : the state of being variegated

especially : diversity of colors

Examples of variegation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With too much shade, the foliage loses much of its yellow variegation. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 11 June 2026

Many pothos plants have variegated leaves and, if the variegation is missing, there's possibly an issue. — Heather Bien, The Spruce, 7 June 2026

Not even 24 hours later, Lopez had hidden away all of that variegation in a super-sleek bun (see above). — Marci Robin, Allure, 2 June 2026

Chinese evergreens have a reputation for easy care, and their many colorful cultivars offer a variety of red and pink variegations. — Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 27 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

varieg(ate) + -ation

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above