alternation
UK: ˌɔːltəˈneɪʃən | US: ˌɔːltərˈneɪʃən
n. the act or process of alternating; repeated change from one state or action to another and back again
n. (mathematics) a sequence in which terms alternate between positive and negative
n. (biology) the occurrence of different forms or stages in the life cycle of an organism
The word "alternation" originates from the Latin root alter (meaning "other" or "change"), combined with the suffix -ation (indicating a process or state). The morpheme alter appears in many English words (e.g., "alternate," "alteration," "alternative"), preserving its core meaning of change or difference. The suffix -ation transforms the verb "alternate" into a noun denoting the process of switching between states. The word evolved through Old French (alternacion) before entering Middle English, retaining its logical progression from "change" to "repeated change."
The alternation between hot and cold weather made it hard to plan outdoor activities.
In poetry, the alternation of stressed and unstressed syllables creates rhythm.
The life cycle of some plants includes an alternation of generations.
The traffic lights’ alternation ensures smooth movement at the intersection.
His mood swings showed a rapid alternation between joy and frustration.