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
Robinson’s still developing his technique, and there was minimal production in Happy Valley, but his first-step explosiveness and speed-to-power variation is a rare commodity.
—
Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Apr. 2024
Originating in Senegal, other countries have developed variations of jollof rice that feature the flavors of specific regions.
—Philip Freeman, Charlotte Observer, 24 Apr. 2024
This small fascinator is available in 29 colors and style variations to fit any Derby dress or outfit.
—Amanda McDonald, Southern Living, 23 Apr. 2024
This slightly smaller variation of the Planet Ocean comes in at 42 mm and notably features a stainless steel build and black bezel.
—Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 23 Apr. 2024
Her samples contain three times as many unique genetic variations than the average in the current population, according to the Fish and Wildlife Service.
—Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 Apr. 2024
Gatwa added that each of the Doctors he’s spoken to has offered a variation of the same advice.
—Devan Coggan, EW.com, 22 Apr. 2024
Its common name also refers to the color variation between male and female crabs.
—Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 22 Apr. 2024
Android Different phone makers all have different takes on Android, but all variations on Android now have an indicator icon that tells you when the on-board camera or mic is in use.
—David Nield/ Gizmodo, Quartz, 22 Apr. 2024
Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Apr. 2024
Originating in Senegal, other countries have developed variations of jollof rice that feature the flavors of specific regions.
—Philip Freeman, Charlotte Observer, 24 Apr. 2024
This small fascinator is available in 29 colors and style variations to fit any Derby dress or outfit.
—Amanda McDonald, Southern Living, 23 Apr. 2024
This slightly smaller variation of the Planet Ocean comes in at 42 mm and notably features a stainless steel build and black bezel.
—Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 23 Apr. 2024
Her samples contain three times as many unique genetic variations than the average in the current population, according to the Fish and Wildlife Service.
—Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 Apr. 2024
Gatwa added that each of the Doctors he’s spoken to has offered a variation of the same advice.
—Devan Coggan, EW.com, 22 Apr. 2024
Its common name also refers to the color variation between male and female crabs.
—Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 22 Apr. 2024
Android Different phone makers all have different takes on Android, but all variations on Android now have an indicator icon that tells you when the on-board camera or mic is in use.
—David Nield/ Gizmodo, Quartz, 22 Apr. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'variation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near variation
Cite this Entry
“Variation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/variation. Accessed 29 Apr. 2024.
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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