First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1various
adjective var·i·ous \ˈver-ē-əs\
—used to refer to several different or many different things, people, etc.
: different from each other
Full Definition of VARIOUS
1
archaic : variable, inconstant
2
: varicolored <birds of various plumage>
3
a : of differing kinds : multifarious b : dissimilar in nature or form : unlike
4
: having a number of different aspects or characteristics <a various place>
5
: of an indefinite number greater than one <stop at various towns>
See various defined for English-language learners
See various defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of VARIOUS
Middle English, probably from Medieval Latin *variosus, from Latin varius
Related to VARIOUS
- Synonyms
- chromatic, colored, kaleidoscopic, motley, multicolored, multihued, polychromatic, polychrome, prismatic, rainbow, varicolored, varied, variegated, colorful
- Antonyms
- colorless; monochromatic, monochromic, monotone, self-colored, solid
Synonym Discussion of VARIOUS
different, diverse, divergent, disparate, various mean unlike in kind or character. different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness <different foods>. diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast <such diverse interests as dancing and football>. divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation <went on to pursue divergent careers>. disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility <disparate notions of freedom>. various stresses the number of sorts or kinds <tried various methods>.
Numerous commentators have condemned different than in spite of its use since the 17th century by many of the best-known names in English literature. It is nevertheless standard and is even recommended in many handbooks when followed by a clause, because insisting on from in such instances often produces clumsy or wordy formulations. Different from, the generally safe choice, is more common especially when it is followed by a noun or pronoun.
Numerous commentators have condemned different than in spite of its use since the 17th century by many of the best-known names in English literature. It is nevertheless standard and is even recommended in many handbooks when followed by a clause, because insisting on from in such instances often produces clumsy or wordy formulations. Different from, the generally safe choice, is more common especially when it is followed by a noun or pronoun.
2various
pronoun, plural in construction
Definition of VARIOUS
: an indefinite number of separate individuals greater than one <have read various of her essays>
First Known Use of VARIOUS
1877
VARIOUS Defined for Kids
various
adjective var·i·ous \ˈver-ē-əs\
Definition of VARIOUS for Kids
1
: of different kinds <On the walls, repeated in various colors, hung several portraits of Queen Victoria … — Mary Norton, The Borrowers>
2
: different one from another : unlike <The projects are in various stages of completion.>
3
: made up of an indefinite number greater than one <Various church groups called meetings. — Richard Peck, A Year Down Yonder>
Learn More About VARIOUS
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up various? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).