modal

adjective

mod·​al ˈmō-dᵊl How to pronounce modal (audio)
1
: of or relating to modality (see modality sense 2) in logic
2
: containing provisions as to the mode of procedure or the manner of taking effect
used of a contract or legacy
3
: of or relating to a musical mode (see mode entry 1 sense 1)
4
: of or relating to structure as opposed to substance
5
: of, relating to, or constituting a grammatical form or category characteristically indicating predication (see predication sense 2) of an action or state in some manner other than as a simple fact
a modal verb
6
: of or relating to a statistical mode (see mode entry 1 sense 7)
modally adverb

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin modalis, from Latin modus

First Known Use

1569, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of modal was in 1569

Dictionary Entries Near modal

Cite this Entry

“Modal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modal. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

modal

adjective
mod·​al ˈmōd-ᵊl How to pronounce modal (audio)
: relating to or being a modal auxiliary
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