Third person singular present of alter; changes or modifies something. Makes adjustments or amendments to existing conditions, appearance, or structure.
From Latin 'alterare' meaning 'to change, make different,' derived from 'alter' meaning 'other' or 'another.' The word entered English through Old French in the 14th century, maintaining its core meaning of transformation or modification.
The word 'alters' connects to one of humanity's most fundamental concepts - the idea of 'otherness.' Every time we alter something, we're making it 'other' than what it was, reflecting our constant drive to change and improve our world rather than accept things as they are.
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