variable Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun something that is likely to vary; something that is subject to variation
    • the weather is one variable to be considered
  2. noun a quantity that can assume any of a set of values
    variable quantity.
  3. noun a star that varies noticeably in brightness
    variable star.
  4. noun a symbol (like x or y) that is used in mathematical or logical expressions to represent a variable quantity
  5. adjective liable to or capable of change
    • rainfall in the tropics is notoriously variable
    • variable winds
    • variable expenses
  6. adjective satellite marked by diversity or difference
    varying.
    • the varying angles of roof slope
    • nature is infinitely variable
  7. adjective satellite (used of a device) designed so that a property (as e.g. light) can be varied
    • a variable capacitor
    • variable filters in front of the mercury xenon lights

WordNet

Va"ri*a*ble adjective
Etymology
L. variabilis: cf. F. variable.
Definitions
  1. Having the capacity of varying or changing; capable of alternation in any manner; changeable; as, variable winds or seasons; a variable quantity.
  2. Liable to vary; too susceptible of change; mutable; fickle; unsteady; inconstant; as, the affections of men are variable; passions are variable.
    Lest that thy love prove likewise variable. Shak.
    His heart, I know, how variable and vain! Milton.
    variable-rate mortgage Syn. -- Changeable; mutable; fickle; wavering; unsteady; versatile; inconstant.
Va"ri*a*ble noun
Definitions
  1. That which is variable; that which varies, or is subject to change.
  2. (Math.) A quantity which may increase or decrease; a quantity which admits of an infinite number of values in the same expression; a variable quantity; as, in the equation x2 - y2 = R2, x and y are variables.
  3. (Naut.) (a) A shifting wind, or one that varies in force. (b) pl. Those parts of the sea where a steady wind is not expected, especially the parts between the trade-wind belts.

Webster 1913