variety
UK: vəˈraɪəti | US: vəˈraɪəti
n. the quality or state of being different or diverse
n. a collection or assortment of different things
n. (biology) a taxonomic category below species
The word variety traces back to Latin varius (diverse), which conveyed the concept of "having multiple forms or colors." Through Old French varieté, it entered Middle English as variete, retaining its core meaning of diversity. The suffix -ety (from Latin -ietas) solidified its role as a noun denoting a state of difference. The term later expanded to biology (18th century) to classify subspecies with distinct traits.
The store offers a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.
She enjoys the variety of cultures in her multicultural neighborhood.
This species has several varieties adapted to different climates.
The festival showcased a variety of musical genres.
Monotony bores him; he craves variety in his daily routine.