modulation

noun

mod·​u·​la·​tion ˌmä-jə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce modulation (audio)
1
: an inflection of the tone or pitch of the voice
specifically : the use of stress or pitch to convey meaning
2
: a regulating according to measure or proportion : tempering
3
: a change from one musical key to another by modulating
4
: the process of modulating a carrier or signal (as in radio)
also : the result of this process

Examples of modulation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Of course, this leaves open the question of voice modulation through AI technology or other means. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 4 Jan. 2025 Triggering these buttons requires no nuance or modulation. Rachel Kushner, Harper's Magazine, 2 Dec. 2024 Beneficial modulation of the gut microbiome by leachates of Penicillium purpurogenum in the presence of clays: A model for the preparation and efficacy of historical Lemnian Earth. Newsweek, 21 Dec. 2024 Greywolf Therapeutics, an antigen modulation technology developer, Darlene Deptula-Hicks as CFO. Ellie Austin, Fortune, 20 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for modulation 

Word History

First Known Use

1501, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of modulation was in 1501

Dictionary Entries Near modulation

Cite this Entry

“Modulation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modulation. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

modulation

noun
mod·​u·​la·​tion ˌmäj-ə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce modulation (audio)
1
: an action of modulating
2
: the extent or degree by which something is modulated
3
: a change from one musical key to another by using a chord that is found in both keys
4
: the process of modulating a carrier wave or signal (as in radio)
also : the result of this process

Medical Definition

modulation

noun
mod·​u·​la·​tion ˌmäj-ə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce modulation (audio)
1
: the act or process of modulating
2
: a reversible change in histological structure due to physiological factors
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!