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Definition of varynext
1
as in to differ
to be unlike; to not be the same opinions by experts on the subject vary

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
as in to range
to occur within a continuous range of variation the appliance store is offering discounts that vary from 10 to 40 percent, depending upon the brand

Synonyms & Similar Words

4
as in to shift
to pass from one form, state, or level to another terrain that constantly varied as we traveled from the coast to the interior

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

varying

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adjective

varying

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verb (2)

present participle of vary
1
as in differing
to be unlike; to not be the same opinions by experts on the subject vary

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
as in ranging
to occur within a continuous range of variation the appliance store is offering discounts that vary from 10 to 40 percent, depending upon the brand

Synonyms & Similar Words

4
as in shifting
to pass from one form, state, or level to another terrain that constantly varied as we traveled from the coast to the interior

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word vary different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of vary are alter, change, and modify. While all these words mean "to make or become different," vary stresses a breaking away from sameness, duplication, or exact repetition.

vary your daily routine

When is alter a more appropriate choice than vary?

While the synonyms alter and vary are close in meaning, alter implies a difference in some particular respect without suggesting loss of identity.

slightly altered the original design

When is it sensible to use change instead of vary?

The words change and vary can be used in similar contexts, but 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

When might modify be a better fit than vary?

The synonyms modify and vary are sometimes interchangeable, but modify suggests a difference that limits, restricts, or adapts to a new purpose.

modified the building for use by the disabled

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 vary
Verb
What Airlines Do—and Don’t—Control Airlines may have their own policies and safeguards for in-flight Wi-Fi, which can vary from carrier to carrier. Emily Cappiello, Travel + Leisure, 25 Feb. 2026 Why these two groups of people turn to their phones varies greatly. Emily Kwong, NPR, 25 Feb. 2026
Adjective
This is a recurring injury for Smith, who has missed five of the last nine games due to varying levels of discomfort in his calf. Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 23 Feb. 2026 Even within a single day, temporary weight shifts are common and are often due to varying levels of fluid retention. Lauren O'Connor, Health, 22 Oct. 2025
Verb
Carroll, Holliday and Lindor have varying degrees of hamate bone injuries — at least per reports — with Lindor’s sounding the least serious. Jake Ciely, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2026 Driving conditions were poor, made worse with icy bridges, blowing snow and varying ramp conditions. Lucia Cheng, Des Moines Register, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for vary
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vary
Adjective
  • In some studies, gloves not changed between tasks had higher bacterial counts and could transfer germs just as easily as ungloved hands, underscoring the need for frequent changing and proper hand hygiene.
    Evan Moore December 19, Charlotte Observer, 19 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • Walking on uneven terrain … requires the smaller stabilizing muscles in your ankles to become more active to maintain a neutral position and balance.
    Ryleigh Nucilli, Outside, 26 Feb. 2026
  • If the area is still uneven after a couple of weeks, repeat the process, but apply only about 1/2 inch of leveling mix at a time until the ground is level.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 26 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Vary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vary. Accessed 4 Mar. 2026.

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