modality

noun

mo·​dal·​i·​ty mō-ˈda-lə-tē How to pronounce modality (audio)
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
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.
What is now imperative is the accommodation and optimization of the communication modalities that have made a lot of air service obsolete. Michael Boyd, Forbes.com, 17 July 2025 Given the advantages of exercise modalities such as yoga, Tai Chi, and walking or jogging – including low cost, minimal side effects, and high accessibility – these interventions are well-suited for integration into primary care and community health programs. New Atlas, 16 July 2025 Comparison of thermoregulatory, cardiovascular, and immune responses to different passive heat therapy modalities. Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 June 2025 Cell And Gene Therapy (CGT) Require Decentralized Networks The CGT modality of drugs is evolving fast and requires even faster supply chains to move this living medicine from a single patient and then return it to that same patient. Mike Walker, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for modality

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of modality was in 1545

Cite this Entry

“Modality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modality. Accessed 2 Aug. 2025.

Medical Definition

modality

noun
mo·​dal·​i·​ty mō-ˈdal-ət-ē How to pronounce modality (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on modality

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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