What does "variable" mean?
Something that is variable.
Variable
/[ˈvæɹ.i.ə.bl̩]/ adj, noun
adj, noun ·Very common ·Middle school level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: Something that is variable.
- Grammar: variable is listed as adj, noun.
- Nearest alternatives: abc, able to adapt, accumulator, adaptable.
- Useful contrasts: academic consistency, algebraic invariant, automated.
- Usage evidence: The sea ice is highly variable - frozen solid during cold, calm weather and broken up in large areas of open water during storms.
How to use "variable"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "variable" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "variable" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "variable" as the right word for your sentence.
If your draft is formal, technical, persuasive, or sensitive, compare "variable" with a nearby alternative so the final choice matches both meaning and reader expectation.
Compare nearby meanings
- Use synonyms when you need a softer, stronger, simpler, or more specific word.
- Use antonyms to check the boundary of the meaning and avoid accidental contrast.
- Use the example sentence to confirm the word behaves naturally in context.
- Keep the original wording when a replacement adds complexity without improving precision.
Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "variable" is acting as adj, noun in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "abc" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
Use the example sentence below as an evidence check, then read your own sentence out loud to catch tone or rhythm problems.
Review note: Definition pages are checked for source coverage, sentence evidence, synonym support, and editorial insight before they are treated as approval-ready pages. If the evidence is too thin, the page remains available to users but is kept out of the approval-facing indexed inventory.
Final meaning check
Before publishing a sentence with "variable", ask whether the word helps the reader understand the idea faster. A precise word should reduce confusion, not simply make the sentence look more polished.
When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 Something that is variable.
- 2 a quantity that can assume any of a set of values wordnet
- 3 Something whose value may be dictated or discovered.
"There are several variables to consider here."
- 4 a symbol (like x or y) that is used in mathematical or logical expressions to represent a variable quantity wordnet
- 5 A quantity that may assume any one of a set of values.
Show 7 more definitions
- 6 something that is likely to vary; something that is subject to variation wordnet
- 7 A symbol representing a variable.
- 8 a star that varies noticeably in brightness wordnet
- 9 A named memory location in which a program can store intermediate results and from which it can read them.
- 10 A variable star.
- 11 A shifting wind, or one that varies in force.
- 12 Those parts of the sea where a steady wind is not expected, especially the parts between the trade-wind belts. in-plural
Adjective
- 1 Able to vary or be varied.
"variable winds or seasons; a variable quantity; a variable resistor"
- 2 Likely to vary.
"Lest that thy love prove likewise variable."
- 3 Marked by diversity or difference.
- 4 Having no fixed quantitative value.
- 5 Tending to deviate from a normal or recognized type.
Adjective
- 1 (used of a device) designed so that a property (as e.g. light) can be varied wordnet
- 2 liable to or capable of change wordnet
- 3 marked by diversity or difference wordnet
Synonyms
All synonymsAntonyms
Example
"The sea ice is highly variable - frozen solid during cold, calm weather and broken up in large areas of open water during storms."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "variable"?
Common synonyms include: abc, able to adapt, accumulator, adaptable, adjustable, adjustable.
How do you use "variable" in a sentence?
The sea ice is highly variable - frozen solid during cold, calm weather and broken up in large areas of open water during storms.
How do you pronounce "variable"?
Pronounced /[ˈvæɹ.i.ə.bl̩]/.
Etymology
Borrowed into Middle English in the 14th century from Old French variable, from Latin variare (“to change”), from varius (“different, various”). Equates to English vary + -able.