module

noun

mod·​ule ˈmä-(ˌ)jül 

1

: a standard or unit of measurement

2

: the size of some one part taken as a unit of measure by which the proportions of an architectural composition are regulated

3

a

: any in a series of standardized units for use together: such as

(1)

: a unit of furniture or architecture

(2)

: an educational unit which covers a single subject or topic

b

: a usually packaged functional assembly of electronic components for use with other such assemblies

the subwoofer module

4

: an independently operable unit that is a part of the total structure of a space vehicle

5

a

: a subset of an additive group that is also a group under addition

b

: a mathematical set that is a commutative group under addition and that is closed under multiplication which is distributive from the left or right or both by elements of a ring and for which a(bx) = (ab)x or (xb)a = x(ba) or both where a and b are elements of the ring and x belongs to the set

Examples of module in a Sentence

factories that build engines, transmissions, brakes, and other modules for cars

a memory module for storing information

Recent Examples on the Web

When equipped with Sierra Space’s 15-foot Shooting Star module, Dream Chaser can carry up to 12,000 pounds of food, water, and supplies to the ISS. —Jaclyn Trop, Robb Report, 25 June 2024

Additionally, the camera module of the non-Pro models may return to the vertical design of the iPhone 12. —Chloe Albanesius, PCMAG, 20 June 2024

Following launch, the space station’s Canadarm2 will grapple Cygnus no earlier than Thursday, Feb. 1, and the spacecraft will attach to the Unity module’s Earth-facing port for cargo unloading by the Expedition 70 crew. —Richard Tribou, Orlando Sentinel, 20 June 2024

Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email [e-mail]. 916-321-1407 Jacqueline Pinedo is a reporter on The Bee’s service journalism team. —Jacqueline Pinedo, Sacramento Bee, 17 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin modulus

First Known Use

circa 1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing module

• command module
• lunar module
• service module

Kids Definition

module

noun

mod·​ule ˈmäj-ü(ə)l 

1

a

: any in a series of similar units for use together

b

: a usually packaged collection of parts (as for an electronic device)

2

: an independent unit of a space vehicle

a propulsion module