VARIABLE Synonyms: 122 Similar and Opposite Words

variable 1 of 2

adjective

ˈver-ē-ə-bəl

Definition of variable

as in adjustable

capable of being readily changed a variable expense that we could reduce if we needed to

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in volatile

likely to change frequently, suddenly, or unexpectedly highly variable income from his job as a real estate agent

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

variable

2 of 2

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of variable

Adjective

The critical distinction, though, is that a high-yield savings rate is variable, not fixed. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 13 July 2026 Exact charge times are still a bit variable, with McMurtry citing anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes to go from 20% to 95%, depending on the ambient temperature and the capability of the charger. — New Atlas, 11 July 2026

Noun

Nearby is the variable-inertia tourbillon at 7 o’clock, in a configuration that mirrors a bicycle’s drivetrain. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 29 June 2026 But the Golden Boot alone does not win a Ballon d’Or, and how far this Norway side travel is the only variable that matters. — Sukhman Singh, New York Times, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for variable

Recent Examples of Synonyms for variable

Adjective

These cute wide-leg pants have a ruffle waistband with an adjustable drawstring, functional pockets, and flowy silhouette for more airflow on hot days.

— Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 19 July 2026
The effortlessly cool pair has a relaxed fit and adjustable tie waistband, which gives them a pajama-like feel.

— Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 18 July 2026

Definition of adjustable

Adjective

The South Korean benchmark now hovers at around 6,700, having experienced volatile swings due to the heavy dependence on heavyweights Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix.

— Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 24 July 2026
As a politician of some experience, she is presumably unfazed by the sorts of challenges that come with governing a volatile section of her volatile country.

— Kevin Sieff, The Atlantic, 24 July 2026

Definition of volatile

Noun

This variable star is also located 250 light-years from Earth, but is sadly lost from view in the glare of the sun during the summer months.

— Anthony Wood, Space.com, 29 June 2026
Mroz counters, however, that none of those cases are actual microlensing events and instead the mere fluctuations of ordinary variable stars.

— Jonathan O'Callaghan, Scientific American, 4 June 2026

Definition of variable star

Adjective

Looking ahead, the sector demands foresight, anticipating future requirements driven by automation and AI to design adaptable spaces.

— James Nelson, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
The opportunity may arrive quicker than expected, but the deeper lesson lies in our ability to remain adaptable.

— Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 21 July 2026

Definition of adaptable

Adjective

These maps account for a range of variables, including cargo-shipping routes, surface currents, wind patterns, and the unpredictable drift of objects at sea.

— Alexander Klose, Scientific American, 24 July 2026
Much of Crown Center is indoors or covered, which is a big plus for when weather becomes unpredictable.

— Taylor Haught, Kansas City Star, 24 July 2026

Definition of unpredictable

Noun

This investigation was conducted in ultraviolet light and using custom calibration to prevent flaring from the red dwarf companions from mimicking white dwarf signals.

— Robert Lea, Space.com, 14 July 2026
The planet either warmed up while engulfed during the red giant phase, or began heating as gravity pulled it closer to the resultant white dwarf.

— Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 1 July 2026

Definition of white dwarf

Adjective

Companies should offer paid leave and flexible arrangements so new mothers aren't penalized at the exact moment their responsibilities increase.

— Kara Dennison, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
It’s made with flexible material that lets kids wiggle into a comfortable position.

— BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026

Definition of flexible

Cite this Entry

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“Variable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/variable. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of variable

adjective

noun

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