First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
vary
verb \ˈver-ē\
: to be different or to become different
: to make (something) different : to make changes to (something) so that it is not always the same
var·iedvary·ing
Full Definition of VARY
transitive verb
1
: to make a partial change in : make different in some attribute or characteristic
2
: to make differences between items in : diversify
intransitive verb
1
: to exhibit or undergo change <the sky was constantly varying>
3
: to take on successive values <y varies inversely with x>
4
: to exhibit divergence in structural or physiological characters from the typical form
— vary·ing·ly \-iŋ-lē\ adverb
See vary defined for English-language learners
See vary defined for kids
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Origin of VARY
Middle English varien, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French varier, from Latin variare, from varius various
Synonym Discussion of VARY
change, alter, vary, modify mean to make or become different. change implies making either an essential difference often amounting to a loss of original identity or a substitution of one thing for another <changed the shirt for a larger size>. alter implies a difference in some particular respect without suggesting loss of identity <slightly altered the original design>. vary stresses a breaking away from sameness, duplication, or exact repetition <vary your daily routine>. modify suggests a difference that limits, restricts, or adapts to a new purpose <modified the building for use by the disabled>.
VARYING Defined for Kids
vary
verb \ˈver-ē\
var·iedvary·ing
Definition of VARY for Kids
1
: to make a partial change in <He varied the rhythm of the poem.>
2
: to make or be of different kinds <She varies her exercise routine.>
3
: to show or undergo change <The sky constantly varies.>
4
: to differ from the usual members of a group
Medical Dictionary
vary
intransitive verb \ˈver-ē, ˈvar-ē\
var·iedvary·ing
Medical Definition of VARY
: to exhibit divergence in structural or physiological characters from the typical form
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