alter

¹

[ awl-ter ]

verb (used with object)

1. to make different in some particular, as size, style, course, or the like; modify:

   to alter a coat; to alter a will; to alter course.

2. to castrate or spay.

verb (used without object)

1. to change; become different or modified.

Alter

²

[ awl-ter ]

noun

1. David, 1807–81, U.S. physicist.

alter.

³

abbreviation for

1. alteration.

alter

/ ˈɔːltə /

verb

1. to make or become different in some respect; change
2. informal.
   tr a euphemistic word for castrate spay

Derived Forms

• ˈalterably, adverb
• ˌalteraˈbility, noun
• ˈalterable, adjective

Other Words From

• alter·er noun
• half-altered adjective
• pre·alter verb (used with object)
• re·alter verb
• un·alter·ing adjective
• well-altered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of alter¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Old French alterer, from Late Latin alterāre “to change, worsen,” derivative of Latin alter “other”

Word History and Origins

Origin of alter¹

C14: from Old French alterer, from Medieval Latin alterāre to change, from Latin alter other

Synonym Study

See adjust,

Example Sentences

This research provides an unprecedented view into how European populations adapted to environmental challenges over millennia, helping us understand how certain traits have persisted, disappeared, or been altered over time.

From Science Daily

Tropicana loyalists are upset over a recent bottle redesign that not only alters the aesthetic but also reduces capacity.

From Salon

Although some of the duplicated genes have since been lost, Ma thinks the duplication events may have given rise to altered or alternative transcription sites.

From Science Daily

To test this, the researchers recorded brain activity in mice during behaviors that alter breathing, such as sniffing, swimming, and drinking, as well as during conditions that induce fear and anxiety.

From Science Daily

It is believed changes include replacing seating in some areas of the ground with terracing, reducing press facilities and altering the hospitality layout as well as the plans for WiFi infrastructure.

From BBC

Related Words

• adjust
• amend
• change
• develop
• modify
• reshape
• revamp
• revise
• shift
• transform
• vary

When To Use

What is another way to say alter?

To alter something is to make it different in some particular way, such as in size, style, or course. How does alter compare to change? Find out on Thesaurus.com.