Dictionary

noun

Definitions

1. The reciprocal succession of (normally two) things in time or place; the act of following and being followed by turns; alternate succession, performance, or occurrence

   Example: alternation between night shifts and day shifts

2. The response of the congregation speaking alternately with the minister.

3. Ablaut.

4. A pattern by which more than one construct is possible, as with "Alice cooked Bob dinner" and "Alice cooked dinner for Bob".

   Example: dative alternation; locative alternation