alter
v. · n.-
1 to change something (v.) B2 Upper Intermediate Academicto change something slightly, often to make it better or more suitable.
to make a structural or formal change to something without replacing it entirely.
ExampleWe had to alter our travel plans because the flight was cancelled.
ExampleThe researchers were forced to alter their hypothesis after the initial data revealed a significant correlation they had not previously considered.
UsageOften used with a direct object; can also be used without an object to mean 'to become different'.
PitfallHe went to the church to pray at the alter.He went to the church to pray at the altar.Do not confuse 'alter' (to change) with 'altar' (a table used in religious ceremonies).
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2 to tailor clothes (v.) B2 Upper Intermediateto change a piece of clothing so that it fits you better.
to adjust the dimensions of a garment for a better fit.
ExampleThe trousers were too long, so I took them to a tailor to have them altered.
ExampleShe decided to alter the vintage dress herself, narrowing the waist and shortening the hem to create a more contemporary silhouette.
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3 to neuter an animal (v.) C1 Advanced American English Medicineto perform a medical operation on an animal so it cannot have babies.
to castrate, neuter, or spay a domestic animal.
ExampleThe animal shelter requires all owners to alter their pets before adoption.
ExampleVeterinarians generally recommend that owners alter their dogs at a young age to prevent unwanted litters and certain health complications.
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4 an alternate personality (n.) C2 Proficiency Technical Psychologyone of several different personalities that a person might have in some mental health conditions.
a distinct personality state or identity within an individual, typically associated with dissociative identity disorder.
ExampleThe patient described how an alter would sometimes take control during stressful moments.
ExampleClinical observation focused on the transition between the primary identity and a protective alter during the therapeutic session.
UsageUsed as a countable noun in clinical psychology.
From Old French alterer (French altérer), from Medieval Latin alterāre (“to make other”), from Latin alter (“the other”), from al- (seen in alius (“other”), alienus (“of another”), etc.; see alias, alien, etc.) + compar. suffix -ter.
Probably from alter ego.