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

Qnity will produce technology for the new variable aperture in the iPhone 18 Pro camera system. — Zev Fima, CNBC, 4 Nov. 2026 The variable camshaft timing solenoids were caked with spent bearing debris; removing the timing chain cover revealed a pool of silvery gunk that collected at the bottom; and the oil pan is shinier than a spoon in the sun. — Caleb Jacobs, The Drive, 4 Nov. 2026

Noun

Perhaps the biggest variable facing Gunn and Safran’s DC Studios is largely outside their control. — Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 26 Oct. 2026 This kind of signal in the brain is called a decision variable, a running tally of evidence that can climb toward a commitment. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 23 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for variable

Recent Examples of Synonyms for variable

Adjective

With its classic saddle-bag silhouette and adjustable strap, this chic vegan leather crossbody bag will soon become your new favorite for fall.

— Kate Donovan, Southern Living, 7 Nov. 2026
The team said traps with adjustable volumes could also accommodate more atoms in future experiments.

— Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026

Definition of adjustable

Adjective

Technology stocks — a key driver of rallies in recent years — have been notably volatile in 2026.

— Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 11 Nov. 2026
In the case of foods and certain beverages, breakdown of the amino acids results in volatile Strecker aldehydes, which are responsible for aroma, and in aminoketones, which impart flavor and coloration, particularly browning.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 Nov. 2026

Definition of volatile

Noun

Untangling the mystery Betelgeuse has long been known as a variable star, and recent breakthroughs are helping astronomers untangle its erratic behavior.

— Joe Rao, Space.com, 3 Nov. 2026
In May, for example, astronomers suggested that a lunar-mass PBH might have been spotted drifting through the halo of our Milky Way, but follow-up work suggested the sighting was a variable star, not a black hole.

— Jonathan O'Callaghan, Scientific American, 2 Oct. 2026

Definition of variable star

Adjective

Because the silhouettes are so adaptable, many can easily work as entryway console tables, dressing tables, and even sideboards to hold extra plates and silverware after all your dinner parties.

— Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 11 Nov. 2026
The developments mark Google’s latest push to bring more adaptable robots into industrial and everyday environments.

— Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 10 Nov. 2026

Definition of adaptable

Adjective

Perhaps the arrival of fall and winter, and with it rougher and more unpredictable seas, will reduce the flow.

— Pedro Portal, Miami Herald, 12 Nov. 2026
Potential applications include manufacturing, space exploration and search-and-rescue missions, where robots may need to navigate unpredictable environments, manipulate objects and adapt to changing requirements.

— Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 12 Nov. 2026

Definition of unpredictable

Noun

The team thinks that this unique double structure is evidence of planets that weren't completely vaporized during this white dwarf's red giant phase.

— Robert Lea, Space.com, 29 Oct. 2026
Next, Hollands is planning to keep analyzing more white dwarf star spectra, with advances in scientific techniques meaning that researchers will be able to look at a new tranche of stars that are even farther away from Earth.

— Jack Guy, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of white dwarf

Adjective

Some provide particularly strong medical and evacuation benefits, while others stand out for family coverage, flexible cancellation options or protection across multiple trips.

— Matt Richardson, CBS News, 2 Nov. 2026
As the nanoparticles come together, the flexible connectors spontaneously reorganize to maximize bond stability.

— Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 2 Nov. 2026

Definition of flexible

Noun

Chandra’s X-ray observations indicate that AT 2016blu has an unseen companion, a compact, high-gravity object that is either a neutron star or a stellar-mass black hole on an elliptical 113-day orbit around the luminous blue variable.

— Keith Cooper, Space.com, 12 Nov. 2026
The gravity on the surface can be several billion times Earth’s, and a typical neutron star’s magnetic field is billions of times stronger than Earth’s as well.

— Phil Plait, Scientific American, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of neutron star

Cite this Entry

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“Variable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/variable. Accessed 15 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of variable

adjective

noun

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