alteration

[ awl-tuh-rey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act or process of altering; the state of being altered:

   Alteration will improve the dress.

2. a change; modification or adjustment:

   There has been an alteration in our plans.

alteration

/ ˌɔːltəˈreɪʃən /

noun

1. an adjustment, change, or modification
2. the act of altering or state of being altered

Other Words From

• preal·ter·ation noun
• proal·ter·ation adjective
• real·ter·ation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of alteration¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English alteracioun, from Medieval Latin alterātiōn-, stem of alterātiō; equivalent to alter + -ation

Example Sentences

While the vast majority of cells appeared normal, nearly all of the women harboured a small number of breast cells -- about 3 per cent -- that carried genetic alterations commonly associated with cancer.

From Science Daily

He said there was exposed electrical wiring in the living room, which could have caused a serious electric shock if touched, and that there were alterations in other areas of the house too.

From BBC

The shows were then broadcast live, with producers creeping in and scribbling alterations on scripts, moments before she read them.

From BBC

The grant pays for alterations, such as installing wet rooms or stairlifts.

From BBC

ScotRail said the station had now reopened with services running as scheduled but warned services may be subject to delay, alteration or cancellation.

From BBC

Related Words

• adjustment
• amendment
• conversion
• diversification
• modification
• mutation
• revision
• transformation
• variance
• variation