Definitions

variation

[vair-ee-ey-shuhn] / ˌvɛər iˈeɪ ʃən /

NOUN

difference; alternative

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abnormality alteration change deviation discrepancy disparity divergence diversity fluctuation innovation modification mutation shift variety

STRONG

aberration adaptation bend break contradistinction contrast curve deflection departure digression displacement dissimilarity dissimilitude distinction diversification exception inequality novelty swerve turn

WEAK

departure from the norm unconformity

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreement harmony sameness similarity stagnation uniformity

STRONG

conformity continuation equality likeness line normality regularity

WEAK

root source

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“In the 14th century A.D., a Moroccan explorer named Ibn Battuta documented that a buttery variation of khichuri was eaten daily in South Asia,” wrote Rachael Grow for Mashed.

From Salon • Jun. 7, 2026

The Environment Agency said it was satisfied the variation met environmental legislative requirements and provided a high level of protection for human health and the environment.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Most, argues the researcher, a distinguished professor of psychology at UC Riverside, say some variation of “I love you.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

Because the slowdown appeared across such a broad area, researchers say it likely reflects a large-scale shift in the Atlantic Ocean rather than a temporary variation.

From Science Daily • May 10, 2026

The subtleties within his hair blended so softly, yet created strong variation.

From "Between Shades of Gray" by Ruta Sepetys

Vocabulary lists containing variation

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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"Mother Tongue" by Amy Tan

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Genetics - Inheritance and Variation of Traits

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!