variable

noun

(programming) A named memory location in which a program can store intermediate results and from which it can read them.

(mathematics) A quantity that may assume any one of a set of values.

Something that is variable.

Something whose value may be dictated or discovered.

(astronomy) A variable star.

(nautical) A shifting wind, or one that varies in force.

(nautical, in the plural) Those parts of the sea where a steady wind is not expected, especially the parts between the trade-wind belts.

(mathematics) A symbol representing a variable.

adjective

(mathematics) Having no fixed quantitative value.

Able to vary or be varied.

Likely to vary.

Marked by diversity or difference.

(biology) Tending to deviate from a normal or recognized type.

Roots

variusvari- · Latin · changing, diverse

Synonyms for variable

varyingadj mutableadj changeableadj alterableadj modifiableadj changefuladj inconstantadj adjustableadj fluctuatingadj unpredictableadj

Synonyms & related words for variable

Find synonyms, related words, and the definition of variable — including varying, mutable, changeable, alterable, modifiable, changeful. Dendril is a free visual thesaurus that shows them on an interactive map where stronger matches sit closer to the center — no signup, no ads.

Words related to variable

Explore words related to variable — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include variableness, variate, covariant, variably, parameter, changeably, variability, mutably. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Synonyms for variable

Common synonyms for variable include varying, mutable, changeable, alterable, modifiable, changeful, inconstant, adjustable — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does variable come from?

The word variable breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root vari-, from Latin varius (“changing, diverse”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.