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Variation Definition & Meaning

variation
noun
  1. an instance of change; the rate or magnitude of change
  2. an activity that varies from a norm or standard; "any variation in his routine was immediately reported"
  3. a repetition of a musical theme in which it is modified or embellished
  4. something a little different from others of the same type; "an experimental version of the night fighter"; "a variant of the same word"; "an emery wheel is the modern variation of a grindstone"; "the boy is a younger edition of his father"
  5. an artifact that deviates from a norm or standard; "he patented a variation on the sandal"
  6. the angle (at a particular location) between magnetic north and true north
  7. the process of varying or being varied
  8. (astronomy) any perturbation of the mean motion or orbit of a planet or satellite (especially a perturbation of the earth's moon)
  9. (biology) an organism that has characteristics resulting from chromosomal alteration
  10. (ballet) a solo dance or dance figure
  11. the act of changing or altering something slightly but noticeably from the norm or standard; "who is responsible for these variations in taxation?"

"Variation" in song lyrics

See how variation is used in real songs:

  • "So I resist temptation, it comes in variation"
    DC Talk — Spinnin Round
  • "We got tension in suspense, theme in variation"
    Dilated Peoples — Clockwork
  • "I who have nothing but the lack of variation"
    Jedi Mind Tricks — I Who Have Nothing

Usage tips for "variation"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "variation" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for variation to find words that pair well.

Use "variation" in a verse

Now that you know what "variation" means, try using it in your own lyrics:

Generate a verse

Frequently asked questions

What does variation mean?
an instance of change; the rate or magnitude of change an activity that varies from a norm or standard; "any variation in his routine was immediately reported" a repetition of a musical theme in which it is modified or embellished something a little different from others of the same type; "an experimental version of the night fighter"; "a variant of the same word"; "an emery wheel is the modern variation of a grindstone
What part of speech is variation?
Variation is a noun.
How many definitions does variation have?
Variation has 11 definitions across 1 part of speech (noun).

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