modulation

noun

mod·​u·​la·​tion ˌmä-jə-ˈlā-shən 

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

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

As for its rivals, there are things that the Q6 does better than them (less complex and more comfortable seats, a more intuitive touchscreen interface) and worse (sound deadening, in-cabin materials choices, regenerative braking modulation). —Andy Biggs, Newsweek, 24 Dec. 2024

In addition to its essential role in initiating movement and controlling voluntary motor behavior, studies have implicated M1 in the modulation of pain perception. —New Atlas, 5 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1501, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing modulation

• amplitude modulation
• frequency modulation
• phase modulation

Kids Definition

modulation

noun

mod·​u·​la·​tion ˌmäj-ə-ˈlā-shən 

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 

1

: the act or process of modulating

2

: a reversible change in histological structure due to physiological factors