modulate

mod·u·late

verb \ˈmä-jə-ˌlāt\

mod·u·lat·edmod·u·lat·ing

Definition of MODULATE

transitive verb

1

: to tune to a key or pitch

2

: to adjust to or keep in proper measure or proportion : temper

3

: to vary the amplitude, frequency, or phase of (a carrier wave or a light wave) for the transmission of information (as by radio); also : to vary the velocity of electrons in an electron beam

intransitive verb

1

: to play or sing with modulation

2

: to pass from one musical key into another by means of intermediary chords or notes that have some relation to both keys

3

: to pass gradually from one state to another

— mod·u·la·tor \-ˌlā-tər\ noun

— mod·u·la·to·ry \-lə-ˌtōr-ē, -ˌtȯr-\ adjective

Examples of MODULATE

1. Because she doesn't modulate her voice, she sounds the same when she's excited as when she's sad.
2. The music quickly modulates from its original key, changing the mood of the song.

Origin of MODULATE

Latin modulatus, past participle of modulari to play, sing, from modulus small measure, rhythm, diminutive of modus measure — more at mete

First Known Use: 1615

Rhymes with MODULATE

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