variation

noun

ˌver-ē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce variation (audio)
Definition of variationnext
1
as in interpretation
a distinct treatment of something (as a story or a play) the movie begins with a somewhat irreverent variation on the Nativity story

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in alteration
the act, process, or result of making different the latest in a long line of variations in her hair color

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 variation Further, real-world situations will inevitably present unexpected variations. — ArsTechnica, 13 July 2026 What emerges is a worsening crisis as pensions consume an ever-rising share of funding, but with some significant variation across the country. — Gregory Kearney, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2026 A lot of what Mariscos offers is different variations of ceviche. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 July 2026 Stick to a cohesive palette—ideally three main colors—and let variations in texture, material, and finish add depth. — Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 12 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for variation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for variation
  1. interpretation
  2. alteration
  3. take
  4. difference
  5. version
  6. change
  7. modification
Noun
  • The company managed to drastically ramp up its production process and produce all 200 hours of interpretations in a span of two months.
    — Brian Welk, IndieWire, 20 July 2026
  • Similarly, Germany's goal versus Paraguay was overturned by VAR's interpretation of an obstruction rule, sparking debate over human judgment rather than factual data.
    — Renana Ashkenazi, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
Definition of interpretation
Noun
  • But when renovating an 18th-century apartment on a side street in the Marais, architect Clément Lesnoff-Rocard boldly undid a number of alterations to the home over the years.
    — Felix Wagner, Architectural Digest, 11 July 2026
  • This challenge transcends typical software localization, demanding fundamental alterations to AI's core reasoning and output.
    — Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026
Definition of alteration
Noun
  • For a grungier denim take, consider this stonewashed gray, split-hem option that’ll add a vintage feel to any outfit.
    — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 18 July 2026
  • Cocoa High defensive end Elyias Wilson proved to be too quick for the competition Saturday at the Orlando Trench Kings event, a football linemen competition with a winner-takes-all prize of $1,000.
    — Chris Hays, The Orlando Sentinel, 18 July 2026
Definition of take
Noun
  • Yes, even these guys are obviously mature for their ages, there’s a pretty significant difference just in terms of frame, body weight.
    — Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 18 July 2026
  • But Scheft and his team are mastering the subtle differences and plan to offer many of the same loaves available in Boston, though the bakeries will have a few different offerings.
    — Connie Ogle July 17, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026
Definition of difference
Noun
  • But Westfalia puts some creativity to work on this version, lifting the bed higher than usual to create a true second level, accessed via three steps.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 15 July 2026
  • Some of it is just an extreme version of your grandmother who used to futilely pat the bottom of her chin to fix that waddle.
    — Mikey O'Connell, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2026
Definition of version
Noun
  • Ortega and Murillo further expanded their authority through sweeping constitutional changes that took effect in 2025.
    — Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 21 July 2026
  • The local media business has seen major changes in recent years with the massive growth in social media, YouTube, Spotify and TikTok as competition for eyeballs.
    — Rodney Ho, AJC.com, 21 July 2026
Definition of change
Noun
  • The company designed it for installation on existing military vehicles and forward operating positions without requiring extensive modifications to core platform systems.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 16 July 2026
  • The Implementing Act update introduces operational modifications by member states and industry stakeholders that include simplified declarations for micro and small primary operators.
    — Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 16 July 2026
Definition of modification

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variants
variation
variations
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Cite this Entry

“Variation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/variation. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on variation

Nglish: Translation of variation for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about variation

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