1
as in interpretations
a distinct treatment of something (as a story or a play)
the movie begins with a somewhat irreverent variation on the Nativity story
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
2
as in changes
the act, process, or result of making different
the latest in a long line of variations in her hair color
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of variations
To kick off 2026, both stars took to the streets (of New York City and Aspen, respectively) wearing variations of cozy Ugg boots.
—
Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026
Daydream Plus for the next quarter-century, or if Neil Young hung up his guitar and kept putting out variations on Trans.
—Daniel Bromfield, Pitchfork, 8 Jan. 2026
Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz also offer variations of AI agents.
—Nora Eckert, USA Today, 8 Jan. 2026
With some species variations, all sorts of wild animals, from small rodents to elephants, will consume alcohol, even to the point of drunkenness.
—Literary Hub, 7 Jan. 2026
The white oak and stained walnut variations make space for a light-blanched vibe or a woodier and more sensational approach, depending on your preference.
—Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 7 Jan. 2026
There are many variations that add meat or even chili.
—Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 6 Jan. 2026
But a more recent line of research has pushed back against these notions, using statistical analysis to suggest that the apparent variations in response are just the result of measurement error and day-to-day biological variability.
—Outside, 6 Jan. 2026
The Luum robot offers three lash styles and two lash lengths, totaling six variations.
—Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 6 Jan. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for variations
Noun
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The best of the bunch run the gamut from crowd-pleasing interpretations of tonka bean and leather to on-the-nose odes to a crackling fireplace.—
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More likely are the frequent incidents where moving objects are subject to multiple interpretations.—
Noun
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Atlas will measure how 1 billion individual cells respond to genetic changes across more than 200 disease-relevant cell types, according to Illumina.—
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The city of Fort Worth is moving forward with zoning changes to limit the concentration of businesses like liquor stores, smoke shops and payday lenders in one area.—
Noun
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Take a trip down memory lane with Vanity Fair’s list of the best Golden Globes looks of all time and relive the night with our blog for fresh takes, up-to-the-minute commentary, and everything in between.—
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To get to the bottom of this, six designers shared their takes and the results were surprisingly split.—
Noun
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In one sketch, a husband and wife decide to get a divorce due to irreconcilable political differences.—
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Nutrient Comparison Oats and almonds are both packed with nutrition, but there are some important differences between the two.—
Noun
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There are also junior versions of the shows with youth competitions.—
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Layered in butter, cream, garlic, Parmesan and green spinach that some versions of its origin story say represents the man’s vast fortune, it was first conceived in New Orleans’ Antoine’s Restaurant in 1899, where a shortage of escargot necessitated some creative moves from chef Jules Alciatore.—
Noun
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Dubbed the Billion Cell Atlas, the data set shows how cells react to specific alterations.—
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Rules governing modification of buildings located in historic districts can be similarly restrictive, and include the additional requirement that any alterations of buildings within their confines be consistent with neighborhood character.—
Cite this Entry
“Variations.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/variations. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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