Meaning & Definition of word "Change"

Change

/tʃeɪndʒ/

noun:

  • 1. The act or instance of making or becoming different.
    • Example: The change in weather caught everyone off guard.
  • 2. Coins of low denomination, used as a substitute for paper money.
    • Example: Can you give me some change for this dollar bill?
  • 3. A difference or alteration in something.
    • Example: There has been a significant change in company policy.

verb:

  • 1. To make or become different; to alter.
    • Example: She decided to change her hairstyle for the summer.
  • 2. To replace one thing with another.
    • Example: He had to change his plans due to the weather.
  • 3. To become different.
    • Example: The seasons change from summer to fall.

Etymology

Middle English 'chang' from Old French 'changier' from Latin 'cambiare'

Common Phrases and Expressions

change of heart:

a change in one's opinion or feelings

make a change:

to implement a new idea or approach

change hands:

to be passed from one owner to another

change for the better:

an improvement in a situation

out of change:

out of small currency or coins

Related Words

alteration:

a change or modification

transformation:

a complete change in form or appearance

conversion:

the act of changing in form or character

modification:

the action of making changes to something

transition:

the process of changing from one state to another

Slang Meanings of change

Meaning: to break a $20 bill for smaller notes

Example Sentence: Can you change a twenty?

Meaning: to switch up one's style or approach

Example Sentence: I think it's time for a change up in my wardrobe.