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
Exhibitors, which include luxury and exclusive car makers, collectors, modifiers and more, also stage new model reveals and events throughout the day lending to an even more exuberant experience.
—
Scotty Reiss, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
The question of whether or not Uniqlo is fast fashion or sustainable fashion or ethical fashion has perhaps become irrelevant in a world in which fashion—no modifier needed—is increasingly culpable for the ravaging of the planet.
—Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025
Apricot Liqueur: Apricot liqueur is one of those things that is incredibly useful across different types of spirits; a flavor that’s both familiar and mildly exotic, and is among my favorite modifiers.
—Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 6 Sep. 2025
Fuller was initially charged with first-degree reckless homicide, but agreed to plead no contest to second-degree reckless homicide with a use of a dangerous weapon modifier.
—Drake Bentley, jsonline.com, 29 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for modifier
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Scotty Reiss, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
The question of whether or not Uniqlo is fast fashion or sustainable fashion or ethical fashion has perhaps become irrelevant in a world in which fashion—no modifier needed—is increasingly culpable for the ravaging of the planet.
—Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025
Apricot Liqueur: Apricot liqueur is one of those things that is incredibly useful across different types of spirits; a flavor that’s both familiar and mildly exotic, and is among my favorite modifiers.
—Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 6 Sep. 2025
Fuller was initially charged with first-degree reckless homicide, but agreed to plead no contest to second-degree reckless homicide with a use of a dangerous weapon modifier.
—Drake Bentley, jsonline.com, 29 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for modifier
Cite this Entry
“Modifier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modifier. Accessed 21 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
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