modifier

noun

mod·​i·​fi·​er ˈmä-də-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce modifier (audio)
1
: one that modifies
2
: a word or phrase that makes specific the meaning of another word or phrase
3
: a gene that modifies the effect of another

Examples of modifier in a Sentence

In “a red hat,” the adjective “red” is a modifier describing the noun “hat.” In “They were talking loudly,” the adverb “loudly” is a modifier of the verb “talking.”
Recent Examples on the Web Other medications include what are known as leukotriene modifiers, which block the action of inflammatory chemicals the immune system produces in the presence of allergens. Jeffrey Kluger, TIME, 25 June 2024 The computers will also have a modifier, ranging from 3 up to 5, 7, X, or Ultra to denote computers that are entry-level all the way up to advanced. Scharon Harding, Ars Technica, 20 May 2024 The charge against him also includes modifiers for use of a dangerous weapon and for being a party to a crime. Chris Ramirez, Journal Sentinel, 18 Mar. 2024 Netflix take on Patricia Highsmith’s novel has done away with the titular modifier. Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 4 Apr. 2024 Lisa and Miriam come to Greg’s defense, arguing that the statute in question contains a dangling modifier. Mary Norris, The New Yorker, 18 Mar. 2024 In addition to one homicide charge having a domestic abuse modifier, Sotka was also convicted of three counts of felony bail jumping, two counts of misdemeanor bail jumping, and one count of criminal damage to property. Ingrid Vasquez, Peoplemag, 14 Mar. 2024 The goal is to survive a series of encounters involving an impressive number of maps, objectives, modifiers, and characters that can be randomly picked or manually chosen. David Pierce, The Verge, 10 Mar. 2024 Most damage-dealing projectile sizes have been increased by a new global modifier added to their base size. Kris Holt, Forbes, 12 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'modifier.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of modifier was in 1583

Dictionary Entries Near modifier

Cite this Entry

“Modifier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modifier. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

modifier

noun
mod·​i·​fi·​er ˈmäd-ə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce modifier (audio)
: a word (as an adjective or adverb) or group of words (as a phrase or clause) used with another word or group of words to limit its meaning

Medical Definition

modifier

noun
mod·​i·​fi·​er ˈmäd-ə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce modifier (audio)
1
: one that modifies
2
: a gene that modifies the effect of another

More from Merriam-Webster on modifier

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