modifier

noun

mod·​i·​fi·​er ˈmä-də-ˌfī(-ə)r 

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

Key Ingredients: Vegan, color-safe, and free of parabens, sulfates, and silicones, this features slip modifiers that reduce surface friction along the hair shaft, as well as lightweight sugarcane to reduce frizz and damage. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 28 Dec. 2024

As the run progresses, players will earn money by beating rounds (called Blinds) which can be used to purchase Jokers (permanent modifiers and multipliers), Tarot cards (one-time use effects), and Planet cards (poker hand level ups). —Scott Robertson, Rolling Stone, 24 Dec. 2024

The one-portal death with erase map modifiers and eat your Waystone and take 15% of your XP on top of that. —Paul Tassi, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

The presentation is more in the vein of the board from the Civilization games — as maps are completed, the board will expand, removing a fog of war to unlock more maps and specific destinations with modifiers, loot, and so on. —Diego Argüello, Rolling Stone, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing modifier

• squinting modifier

Kids Definition

modifier

noun

mod·​i·​fi·​er ˈmäd-ə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

: 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 

1

: one that modifies

2

: a gene that modifies the effect of another