variation

Variation is how much something differs from another.

(noun)

An example of variation is light blue to dark blue.

See variation in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

1. the act, fact, or process of varying; change or deviation in form, condition, appearance, extent, etc. from a former or usual state, or from an assumed standard
2. the degree or extent of such change
declination (sense 3)
a thing that is somewhat different from another of the same kind
Astron. a change in or deviation from the mean motion or orbit of a planet, satellite, etc.
Ballet a solo dance
Biol.
1. a deviation from the usual or parental type in structure or form
2. an organism showing such deviation
Math. the manner in which two or more quantities change relative to one another
Music the repetition of a theme or musical idea with changes or embellishments in harmony, rhythm, key, etc., esp. any of a series of such repetitions developing a single theme

Origin: ME variacion < OFr < L variatio

Related Forms:

See variation in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. The act, process, or result of varying.
b. The state or fact of being varied. See Synonyms at difference.
The extent or degree to which something varies: a variation of ten pounds in weight.
Magnetic declination.
Something slightly different from another of the same type.
Biology
a. Marked difference or deviation from the normal or recognized form, function, or structure.
b. An organism or plant exhibiting such difference or deviation.
Mathematics A function that relates the values of one variable to those of other variables.
Music
a. A form that is an altered version of a given theme, diverging from it by melodic ornamentation and by changes in harmony, rhythm, or key.
b. One of a series of forms based on a single theme.
A solo dance, especially one forming part of a larger work.