Alternation
Pronunciation : Al`ter*na"tion
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [L. alternatio: cf. F. alternation.]
Definition : 1. The reciprocal succession of things in time or place; the act of following and being followed by turns; alternate succession, performance, or occurrence; as, the alternation of day and night, cold and heat, summer and winter, hope and fear.
2. (Math.)
Defn: Permutation.
3. The response of the congregation speaking alternately with the minister. Mason. Alternation of generation. See under Generation.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913