modem

1 of 2

noun

mo·​dem ˈmō-dəm 

also

-ˌdem 

plural modems

: a device that converts signals produced by one type of device (such as a computer) to a form compatible with another (such as a telephone) and that is used especially to transmit and receive information between computers via landlines

modem

2 of 2

verb

modemed; modeming; modems

transitive verb

: to send (something, such as data) via a modem

Examples of modem in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Yes, but: Though the modems were reliable and connected only briefly to online systems, the SOS has nonetheless encouraged eliminating them, Fitzgerald noted in a presentation to supervisors last month. —Jason Clayworth, Axios, 11 Feb. 2025

Some of her narrative leaps do falter, like that modem straining to connect. —Alexandra Jacobs, New York Times, 19 Jan. 2025

Apple is finally going to start producing the modem chips inside its iPhones in-house, after years of delays, Bloomberg reports. —Will McCurdy, PCMAG, 7 Dec. 2024

The new modem will, however, support dual SIM standby, allowing people to have two active SIM cards at the same time. —Emma Roth, The Verge, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

modulator + demodulator

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1952, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1984, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing modem

• cable modem
• fax modem

Kids Definition

modem

noun

mo·​dem

ˈmō-ˌdem

: a device that changes signals from one form to a form which can be used by another kind of equipment

computer information is sent over telephone lines using a modem