ˌȯltəˈrāshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English alteracioun, from Middle French & Medieval Latin; Middle French alteration, from Medieval Latin alteration-, alteratio, from alteratus (past participle of alterare ) + Latin -ion-, -io -ion
1.
a. : the act or action of altering
b. : the quality or state of being altered
2. : the result of altering: as
a. : a change in a legal instrument that changes its legal effect either in the obligation it imports or its force as legal evidence — distinguished from spoliation
b. : a change made in fitting a new or old garment
no charge for alterations
c. : a change marked on a proof that does not accord with the copy or with a previous proof — distinguished from correction
d. : a change or modification made on a building that does not increase its exterior dimensions☞In this dictionary the abbreviation “alter.” for “alteration” is used in etymologies with reference only to changes occurring within a language