vary

play

verb \ˈver-ē\

Definition of vary

varied

;

varying

transitive verb
1 : to make a partial change in : make different in some attribute or characteristic
2 : to make differences between items in : diversify
intransitive verb
1 : to exhibit or undergo change the sky was constantly varying
2 : deviate, depart
3 : to take on successive values y varies inversely with x
4 : to exhibit divergence in structural or physiological characters from the typical form

varyingly

play \ˈver-ē-iŋ-lē\ adverb

See vary defined for English-language learners

See vary defined for kids

Examples of vary in a sentence

The terrain varies as you climb higher.
The cost of a room at the hotel varies with the season.
Their services vary depending on the customer.
They've tried to improve their procedures, with varying degrees of success.
The diamonds vary in size.
Colors vary from light to dark.
I try to vary my diet by eating different kinds of foods.

Origin and Etymology of vary

Middle English varien, borrowed from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French varier, borrowed from Latin variāre “to mark with contrasting colors, give variety to, make changeable,” derivative of varius “having contrasting colors, of different kinds, changeable,” of uncertain origin

First Known Use: 14th century

Synonym Discussion of vary

change, alter, vary, modify mean to make or become different. change implies making either an essential difference often amounting to a loss of original identity or a substitution of one thing for another. changed the shirt for a larger size alter implies a difference in some particular respect without suggesting loss of identity. slightly altered the original design vary stresses a breaking away from sameness, duplication, or exact repetition. vary your daily routine modify suggests a difference that limits, restricts, or adapts to a new purpose. modified the building for use by the disabled