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>
6
:  individual, separate <rate increases granted in the various states>
var·i·ous·ness noun
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Origin of VARIOUS

Middle English, probably from Medieval Latin *variosus, from Latin varius
First Known Use: 15th century

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.

Rhymes with VARIOUS

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
VARIOUSNESS 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>

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