variation
UK: ˌveəriˈeɪʃən | US: ˌveriˈeɪʃən
n. a change or slight difference in condition, amount, or level
n. (biology) a difference in characteristics within a species
n. (music) a version of a melody with modifications
The word "variation" stems from the Latin variatio, derived from variare (to change). The root vari- (change) is preserved in English words like "vary" and "variable," while -ation is a noun-forming suffix indicating an action or result. The term evolved through Old French before entering Middle English, retaining its core meaning of "difference" or "modification." Its usage expanded to fields like biology (genetic differences) and music (thematic alterations).
The experiment showed significant variation in temperature.
Genetic variation is crucial for species survival.
The composer wrote a brilliant variation on the main theme.
Regional variations in dialect can be fascinating.
The artist explored color variation in her paintings.