as in mixing
to place or do (different things) so that one follows the other in a repeated series
To make the appetizer, you should alternate layers of tomatoes and cheese. The poem alternates fear and hope.
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of alternating
Rafael Guerrero, chicagotribune.com, 3 Nov. 2020
In Montgomery, churches could have alternating rows of pews roped off and pillows placed in the others, asking only family members to sit together.
—Dennis Pillion | Dpillion@al.com, al, 19 Apr. 2020
To rein in these non-traditional energy sources, researchers typically rely on rectifiers, or devices designed to convert the alternating current of electromagnetic waves—which oscillate in every which direction—into a direct current.
—Courtney Linder, Popular Mechanics, 2 Apr. 2020
The novel presents the alternating viewpoints of Alice and Eleanor in first person, as well as several chapters following John Billington’s point of view (which is disconcertingly rendered in third person).
—Emily Gray Tedrowe, USA TODAY, 16 Mar. 2020
See All Example Sentences for alternating
Verb
District 203 Superintendent Dan Bridges said early childhood students in full-day preschool will begin returning to their schools on an alternating-day basis beginning Thursday.
—Rafael Guerrero, chicagotribune.com, 3 Nov. 2020
In Montgomery, churches could have alternating rows of pews roped off and pillows placed in the others, asking only family members to sit together.
—Dennis Pillion | Dpillion@al.com, al, 19 Apr. 2020
To rein in these non-traditional energy sources, researchers typically rely on rectifiers, or devices designed to convert the alternating current of electromagnetic waves—which oscillate in every which direction—into a direct current.
—Courtney Linder, Popular Mechanics, 2 Apr. 2020
The novel presents the alternating viewpoints of Alice and Eleanor in first person, as well as several chapters following John Billington’s point of view (which is disconcertingly rendered in third person).
—Emily Gray Tedrowe, USA TODAY, 16 Mar. 2020
See All Example Sentences for alternating
Recent Examples of Synonyms for alternating
Adjective
-
The 33-page draft plan appears to detail alternate facilities that could be used in an evacuation, procedures for detainee transportation and other measures that would be enacted in the event of a powerful storm or other emergency.—
Skyler Swisher,
The Orlando Sentinel,
30 July 2025
-
Nail varnish that was black and green on alternate fingers.—
Kate Weinberg
July 30,
Literary Hub,
30 July 2025
Adjective
-
The Connaught Grill Beloved as one of London’s most historic dining venues, The Connaught Grill debuted a summer menu that emphasizes seasonal British coastal produce.—
Rachel Dube,
Forbes.com,
3 Aug. 2025
-
Among the beverage choices, customers can choose from a menu showcasing seasonal flavors, classic coffees, protein coffees, smoothies, matchas, shakes, energy drinks, snacks and more.—
Jason Dill,
Miami Herald,
2 Aug. 2025
Adjective
-
The rhythmic whooping grew louder in the air as search helicopters made their way for the missing.—
Sophia Leone,
FOXNews.com,
22 July 2025
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With a relationship dating to 1970, the tandem built a balanced, rhythmic symmetry that accommodated any type of flourish or alteration.—
Bob Gendron,
Chicago Tribune,
20 July 2025
Verb
-
Brown devoted Wednesdays to mobility and conditioning after years of just incorporating it into his daily workouts.—
Chandler Rome,
New York Times,
10 Apr. 2025
-
The musical’s score stood out for its non-white cast and incorporating hip-hop, R&B and soul elements to the soundscape.—
Amy Contreras,
Los Angeles Times,
10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
The telemetry log employs a cyclic buffer design, automatically overwriting older entries when the log reaches full capacity.—
IEEE Spectrum,
IEEE Spectrum,
30 June 2025
-
Big Bounce: The Universe collapses and then expands again, potentially in a cyclic process.—
Jamie Carter,
Forbes.com,
16 May 2025
Adjective
-
Once, members of the House without a peep of protest even exalted the infamous serial killer known as the Boston Strangler.—
John C. Moritz,
Austin American Statesman,
30 July 2025
-
The first season focused on Jeffrey Dahmer, with Evan Peters winning Emmy gold for his portrayal of the titular serial killer responsible for the death of at least 17 boys and young men between 1978 and 1991.—
Carson Blackwelder,
People.com,
28 July 2025
Adjective
-
Traditional compliance relies on manual processes, periodic audits and reactive remediation methods that are resource-intensive and inadequate for addressing dynamic cyber threats.—
Sunil Kumar Puli,
Forbes.com,
31 July 2025
-
Cultural tours every Wednesday focus on Hawaii’s history and traditions, while periodic garden tours highlight the native plants, while art tours show the impressive collection of paintings and sculptures.—
Barbara Schuler,
Travel + Leisure,
30 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Alternating.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/alternating. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.
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