Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈɔːltərənt/
KK: /ˈɔltərənt/
Definition
A thing that causes a change or makes something different.
Example
The doctor prescribed an alterant to help with the patient's condition.
Conversation

Have you ever thought about what could be an alterant in our daily routines?

Yeah, I think changes in our environment can really make a difference.

Exactly! Even small things can act as an alterant to our habits.

Totally, like trying a new coffee shop instead of the usual place.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
modifier
changer
transformer
Antonyms
stabilizer
maintainer
preserver
Root Explanation
Alterant is derived from the Latin root "alterare" (meaning to change) and the suffix "-ant" (indicating an agent or something that performs an action). The word "alterant" refers to something that causes change or alteration.
Memory Tip
Think of 'alter' meaning to change, and '-ant' indicating an agent — so an alterant is something that causes a change.
Visually Confused Words
adulterant
cauterant
tergant
subalternant
saltern
saltant
latrant
lateran