variations

Definition of variationsnext
plural of variation
1
as in interpretations
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

Relevance
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 variations Each generation showed small variations, and just like in nature, those that coped the best passed on their characteristics. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 16 Feb. 2026 In the world of Manhattan variations, the Brooklyn is one of the best. Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 14 Feb. 2026 Some common cases presented to non-specialty clinics include tasks delegated to technicians that can be performed by doctors with limited or symbolic hands-on involvement, wide variations in surgical experience, and inconsistent or informal training structures. Daniel Fusch, jsonline.com, 13 Feb. 2026 Throughout the month of February, variations of these colors appear at Black History Month events and celebrations, serving as symbols of Black unity and pride. Alex Perry, Cincinnati Enquirer, 12 Feb. 2026 Its metrics can’t confirm specific variations in toilet usage during a single event, Luciano Ramos said in an email. Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 11 Feb. 2026 Certain studies point to other variations as well—fainting and fever may be more common in women whereas palpitations may crop up more often in men. Erica Sloan, SELF, 10 Feb. 2026 A lot of modern pop goes through variations of C, A minor, F and G, then wobble along on top of it. Ernesto Lechner, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026 Researchers determined that a range of genetic variations, as well as exposure or lack of exposure to common pathogens, play a role in the body’s response to infections and/or treatments. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for variations
Noun
  • By day, visitors can discover one-of-a-kind interpretations of some of their favorite artworks.
    Anya Sesay, jsonline.com, 18 Feb. 2026
  • Not all Christian denominations fast or give something up during Lent, however, and the practice can have many interpretations depending on someone's spirituality, personal health and social circumstances.
    Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 18 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Climate change and warming oceans could potentially be driving sharks to the Southern Hemisphere’s colder waters, but there was limited data on range changes near Antarctica because of the region’s remoteness, Kyne said.
    CNN Money, CNN Money, 18 Feb. 2026
  • More changes are inevitable over the next month, but not like last year’s clear-cutting.
    Cam Inman, Mercury News, 17 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The pace isn’t slow but, rather, timeless; Depardon builds it with long takes that are emptied of what the captive thinks of as her life but full of an alternative time scale, a meta-experience of its own.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 19 Feb. 2026
  • On the day, there was good humor and good banter in between takes.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 19 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • But there are some differences.
    Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
  • According to the National Center for State Courts, Connecticut ranks 21st in wages for general jurisdiction judges, but that slips to 42nd once adjusted for regional differences in cost of living.
    Keith M. Phaneuf, Hartford Courant, 17 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Another measure, House Bill 1645, would create state versions of FEMA programs as Mississippi officials prepare for reduced federal disaster support.
    ALEX ROZIER Mississippi Today, Arkansas Online, 14 Feb. 2026
  • Previous versions of the bill failed to gain traction in both chambers last year.
    Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy, USA Today, 14 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • But Parker has also taken a few creative liberties and made adaptational alterations — including a key conversation that the showrunner now regrets leaving out.
    Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Feb. 2026
  • But for Bashara, the most important aspects to consider in assessing potential are the home’s foundation, roof, and the extent of previous alterations.
    Staff Author, Southern Living, 13 Feb. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Variations.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/variations. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on variations

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!