happening, appearing, or used every other time; occurring in a regular pattern of one, then the next
We have PE class on alternate Fridays so everyone gets enough rest.
The local bus runs on an alternate schedule during the holidays.
✦ From Latin alternatus, past participle of alternare “to do by turns,” from alter “other.”
offering or being another possible choice; substitute
If you can’t have dairy, soy milk is an alternate option.
The committee suggested an alternate plan to reduce costs.
✦ Sense of “another choice” developed in American English in the 19th century, influenced by the word “alternative.”
a person or thing that can take the place of another if needed
Liam is the first alternate on the basketball team.
Every jury has an alternate in case someone falls ill.
✦ Noun sense arose in American English in the early 20th century from the adjective meaning of substitution.
to happen or follow one after the other repeatedly; to take turns
Sunshine and showers often alternate during spring.
We decided to alternate who cooks dinner each night.
✦ From Latin alternare “to do by turns,” see earlier etymology.
