English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word alternate in English

What does alternate mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

alternate

US /ˈɑːl.tɚ.neɪt/
UK /ˈɒl.tə.neɪt/
"alternate" picture

Verb

1.

occur by turns repeatedly

Example:
•
The sun and clouds alternate throughout the day.
•
He and his brother alternate driving on long trips.
Synonym:
rotate interchange take turns
2.

change between two or more states or actions

Example:
•
The traffic lights alternate between red and green.
•
Her mood can alternate rapidly between joy and sadness.
Synonym:
fluctuate oscillate vary

Adjective

1.

every other; every second

Example:
•
We meet on alternate Tuesdays.
•
The pattern uses alternate stripes of red and blue.
Synonym:
every other every second intermittent
2.

denoting a different possible course of action or choice

Example:
•
Do you have an alternate plan?
•
We need to find an alternate route.
Synonym:
alternative substitute different

Noun

a person who acts as a substitute for another

Example:
•
The coach named an alternate for the injured player.
•
She served as an alternate juror.
Synonym:
substitute replacement reserve
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Related Word:
alternatively alternative alternatives alternation alternately alternator as an alternative to