n.1. in biological taxonomy, a subdivision of a species comprising those members of the species that are distinct with reference to particular minor characteristics that do not affect their ability to interbreed to produce fertile offspring. The various breeds of domestic animals are examples of varieties. 2. in linguistics, a version of a language that is phonologically or grammatically distinct from the standard language and may be associated with such categories as region, ethnicity, or social class. See also dialect; register.