variable
UK: /ˈveə.ri.ə.bəl/ | US: /ˈver.i.ə.bəl/
adj. likely to change or vary; not consistent or fixed
n. a quantity or factor that can change or be changed
n. (computing) a symbol representing a value that can be altered
variable = vari<change> + able<capable of>
- vari (from Latin variare, meaning "to change" or "diverse")
- able (from Latin -abilis, a suffix indicating capacity or tendency)
Etymology Origin:
The word variable traces back to Latin variabilis, combining variare (to change) and -abilis (capable of). It entered Middle English via Old French, retaining its core sense of "changeability." The root vari reflects the concept of diversity or fluctuation, while -able adds the notion of potential or tendency. This logical pairing makes variable ideal for describing adaptability in mathematics, science, and everyday contexts.
The weather in spring is highly variable, shifting from sunshine to rain within hours.
In algebra, x is often used as a variable to represent unknown values.
Her mood was variable, making it hard to predict her reactions.
The experiment tested how variable temperatures affect plant growth.
Programmers use variables to store temporary data in their code.