Changing or modifying something in character or composition; making different in some way.
From Latin 'alterare' meaning to change, from 'alter' (other, another). Entered English via Old French 'alterer'. The root concept emphasizes becoming 'other' than what something was.
The Latin root 'alter' (other) reveals that altering something literally means making it 'other' than itself. This philosophical depth appears in words like 'alter ego' and 'alternative' - all exploring the concept of otherness.
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