modality

noun

mo·​dal·​i·​ty mō-ˈda-lə-tē 

plural modalities

1

a

: the quality or state of being modal

b

: a modal quality or attribute : form

2

: the classification of logical propositions (see proposition sense 1) according to their asserting or denying the possibility, impossibility, contingency, or necessity of their content

3

: one of the main avenues of sensation (such as vision)

4

: a usually physical therapeutic agency

Examples of modality in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Call to action: Payments modernization means sending funds digitally and also offering dynamic payment optionality—both digital and physical modalities—meeting payee preferences. —Amanda Eisel, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025

But teachers don’t need to teach every lesson in different modalities to accommodate each individual student. —Virginia Clinton-Lisell, The Conversation, 6 Jan. 2025

There are all sorts of different treatment modalities. —Simon Perry, People.com, 20 Dec. 2024

With that in mind, Enterprise’s practice combines modalities that have been on the market for years like Hydrafacial and LED light with the latest-and-greatest like Cutera’s high-tech devices and even the salmon sperm facial. —Emily Burns, WWD, 26 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Medical Definition

modality

noun

mo·​dal·​i·​ty mō-ˈdal-ət-ē 

plural modalities

1

: one of the main avenues of sensation (as vision)

2

a

: a usually physical therapeutic agency

b

: an apparatus for applying a modality