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

Is that why you reacted so strongly to the fan who altered the poster for the film in a social media post, hiding your face under Elphaba’s hat?

From Los Angeles Times

The new understanding of how a plasma matter alters a pulsar's signal will change how astrophysicists understand other pulsars.

From Science Daily

"Even something as innocuous as recreation can add to these other stressors we're bringing into their lives, potentially by altering the amount of energy they have to expend for hunting and other needs," Bolas said.

From Science Daily

California lawmakers want to strengthen protections against digitally altered media ahead of the Nov. 5 election, but questions about enforcement linger.

From Los Angeles Times

And it was the altered visual environment that proved to be the linchpin for learning.

From Science Daily

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.