The phrase "variant form" refers to a slightly different version or way of something. It means that there is an alternative or modified version of an object, concept, or idea. Full definition
New genome - sequencing research suggests white European people with two copies of variant forms of MC1R, a gene linked to pale skin and red hair, have faces that appear up to two years older than those who are the same age but don't have both copies. (scientificamerican.com)
I mention these great Greek options not only because they are important in themselves, but also because they are found in variant forms in our modern world. (religion-online.org)
The parable of the great banquet, which in somewhat variant forms appears in Matthew 22:1 - 14 and Luke 14:12 - 24, has as its theme the divine invitation which must be accepted without excuses. (religion-online.org)