var·i·ance /'ver-ē-əns/ n
1: a disagreement between two documents or positions; esp: a disagreement between allegations (as in an indictment or complaint) and proof offered at trial that warrants an appropriate remedy (as a directed verdict or an acquittal) when prejudicial to the substantial rights of the defendant
2: an authorization to do something contrary to the usual restriction
a variance granted by a state agency; esp: permission for a use of real property that is prohibited by a zoning ordinance see also unnecessary hardship compare spot zoning
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.