Definition of mode
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a
: an arrangement of the eight diatonic notes or tones of an octave according to one of several fixed schemes of their intervals (see interval sense 2a)
b
: a rhythmical (see rhythm sense 2) scheme (as in 13th and 14th century music)
2
: mood entry 2 sense 2
the indicative mode the subjunctive mode
3
[Late Latin modus, from Latin]
b
: the modal (see modality sense 2) form of the assertion or denial of a logical proposition
4a
: a particular form or variety of something
flying and other modes of transport new modes of communication
b
: a form or manner of expression : style
a different mode of living
5
: a possible, customary, or preferred way of doing something
explained in the usual solemn mode Let's get into work mode. new modes of experimentation had to be developed— J. B. Conant
6a
: a manifestation (see manifestation sense 1), form, or arrangement of being
specifically
: a particular form or manifestation of an underlying substance
b
: a particular functioning arrangement or condition : status
a computer operating in parallel mode sleep mode a device that changes display colors in night mode to help reduce eyestrain
7a
: the most frequent value of a set of data
b
: a value of a random variable for which a function of probabilities (see probability sense 3) defined on it achieves a relative maximum
8
: any of various stationary vibration patterns of which an elastic body or oscillatory system is capable
the vibration mode of an airplane propeller blade the vibrational modes of a molecule
mode
noun (2)Definition of mode (Entry 2 of 2)
: a prevailing fashion or style (as of dress or behavior)
the newest mode in dresses
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Test Your Vocabulary
February 2021 Words of the Day Quiz
-
- Which is a synonym of perdure?

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Share mode
Time Traveler for mode
The first known use of mode was in the 15th century
See more words from the same century