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

"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

Researchers found there were commonalities among people who wouldn't alter their cannabis consumption.

From Science Daily

He denies having altered the transcript of the call other than to change the time.

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.