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

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

My favorite modifier from them is the Spotlight SE. —Cath Virginia, The Verge, 5 Dec. 2024

Other citrus ends up as an orange liqueur dupe, added to margaritas and sold on its own as a cocktail modifier. —Kate Dingwall, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2024

The latter works better than expected on most games, only appearing stretched on a select few titles, but the general lack of visual modifiers is a disappointment. —Matt Kamen, WIRED, 19 Sep. 2019

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