Variable

/ˈvɛr.i.ə.bəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A quantity or condition that can change or vary.

In the equation, x is the variable representing the unknown value.

A symbol used in mathematics and programming to represent a value that can change.

The variable 'count' was used to track the number of iterations in the loop.

In statistics, a characteristic or attribute that can take on different values among subjects.

Age is a variable that can affect the results of the study.

adjective

Able to change or vary; not fixed or constant.

The weather is variable, changing from sunny to rainy within minutes.

Subject to change; unpredictable.

The variable nature of his work schedule made planning difficult.

From Latin 'variabilis', meaning 'changeable'.

variable rate

A rate that can change over time.

variable costs

Costs that vary with production volume.

independent variable

A variable in an experiment that is manipulated to test its effects.

variation

A change or difference in condition, amount, or level.

vary

To differ in size, amount, degree, or nature.

Something unpredictable or inconsistent.

The project's timeline is so variable; we can't be sure when it will finish.

A factor subject to change.

My schedule this week is totally variable; I can't commit to plans.