variation
noun
var·i·a·tion
ˌver-ē-ˈā-shən 
1
3
a
: a change of algebraic sign between successive terms of a sequence
b
: a measure of the change in data, a variable, or a function
4
: the repetition of a musical theme with modifications in such elements as rhythm, melody, harmony, key, tempo, and accompaniment
5
a
: divergence in the structural or functional characteristics of an organism from the species or population norm or average
b
: something (such as an individual or group) that exhibits variation
6
a
: a solo dance in classic ballet
b
: a repetition in modern ballet of a movement sequence with changes
variationally
adverb
Examples of variation in a Sentence
the movie begins with a somewhat irreverent variation on the Nativity story
the latest in a long line of variations in her hair color
Recent Examples on the Web
The two tones are closely related, and while there are the sections of lighter hair clearly pop, the variation is unbelievably smooth (much like the blowout itself).
—
Marci Robin, Allure, 27 Jan. 2025
Weather data from cities across the state suggest that while temperatures are gradually rebounding, variations persist in different regions.
—Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 27 Jan. 2025
The nomination marks a variation from Trump's anti-establishment rhetoric.
—Zac Anderson, USA TODAY, 27 Jan. 2025
In a confidential memo to the culture minister Rachida Dati earlier this month, Ms. des Cars condemned the disastrous physical state of the museum, including water leaks and temperature variations that endanger artworks, overcrowding, insufficient toilet facilities and poor signage.
—Elaine Sciolino, New York Times, 24 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for variation 
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Marci Robin, Allure, 27 Jan. 2025
Weather data from cities across the state suggest that while temperatures are gradually rebounding, variations persist in different regions.
—Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 27 Jan. 2025
The nomination marks a variation from Trump's anti-establishment rhetoric.
—Zac Anderson, USA TODAY, 27 Jan. 2025
In a confidential memo to the culture minister Rachida Dati earlier this month, Ms. des Cars condemned the disastrous physical state of the museum, including water leaks and temperature variations that endanger artworks, overcrowding, insufficient toilet facilities and poor signage.
—Elaine Sciolino, New York Times, 24 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for variation
Dictionary Entries Near variation
Cite this Entry
“Variation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/variation. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
variation
noun
var·i·a·tion
ˌver-ē-ˈā-shən, ˌvar-
1
: divergence in one or more characteristics of an organism or biotype from those typical of or usual for its group
2
: something (as an individual or group) that exhibits variation
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