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
What's more, the human eye is very good at picking up subtle variations in color and texture — better than robotic spacecraft cameras, in fact.
—
Mike Wall, Space.com, 7 Apr. 2026
As multiple cities around Jackson County move to ban types of unregulated and potentially dangerous ‘gas station drugs’ — specifically more potent variations of kratom — Lee’s Summit has not only joined the charge but has taken restrictions even further.
—Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 6 Apr. 2026
One is to observe color variations on the lunar surface.
—Brendan Byrne, NPR, 6 Apr. 2026
There are islands of terrain out there that are completely surrounded by darkness, which indicates some real variation in terrain.
—Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 6 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for variation
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Mike Wall, Space.com, 7 Apr. 2026
As multiple cities around Jackson County move to ban types of unregulated and potentially dangerous ‘gas station drugs’ — specifically more potent variations of kratom — Lee’s Summit has not only joined the charge but has taken restrictions even further.
—Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 6 Apr. 2026
One is to observe color variations on the lunar surface.
—Brendan Byrne, NPR, 6 Apr. 2026
There are islands of terrain out there that are completely surrounded by darkness, which indicates some real variation in terrain.
—Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 6 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for variation
Cite this Entry
“Variation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/variation. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.
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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