Variable

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.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ˈvɛə.ɹi.ə.bl̩/
• (US, Mary–marry–merry distinction) IPA^(key): /ˈvæɹ.i.ə.bl̩/
• (US, Mary–marry–merry merger) IPA^(key): /ˈvɛɹ.i.ə.bl̩/

Audio (US)

Duration: 1 second.0:01

Adjective

variable (comparative more variable, superlative most variable)

1. Able to vary or be varied. [ synonyms, antonyms ▲]

   Synonyms: alterable, flexible, changeable, mutable; see also Thesaurus:mutable

   Antonyms: constant, invariable, immutable, unalterable, unchangeable; see also Thesaurus:immutable

   variable winds or seasons; a variable quantity; a variable resistor

2. Likely to vary. [ synonyms, antonyms ▲][ quotations ▼]

   Synonyms: fickle, fluctuating, inconstant, shifting, unstable, unsteady; see also Thesaurus:unsteady, Thesaurus:changeable

   Antonyms: constant, invariable, immutable, unchangeable; see also Thesaurus:steady, Thesaurus:changeless

3. Marked by diversity or difference. [ synonyms, antonyms ▲]

   Synonyms: varying; see also Thesaurus:heterogeneous

   Antonyms: unchanging; see also Thesaurus:homogeneous

4. (mathematics) Having no fixed quantitative value. [ antonyms ▲]

   Antonyms: constant, invariable

5. (biology) Tending to deviate from a normal or recognized type. [ synonym ▲]

   Synonym: aberrant