modification

noun

mod·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌmä-də-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

: the limiting of a statement : qualification

With some modifications this statement is true today.

—J. B. Conant

2

: mode entry 1 sense 3a

3

a

: the making of a limited change in something

… making the exactly minimum degree of modification to her institutions necessary to fit them to new conditions.

—John Strachey

also : the result of such a change

b

: a change in an organism caused by environmental factors

4

: a limitation or qualification (see qualification sense 1) of the meaning of a word by another word, by an affix, or by internal change

Synonyms of modification

• alteration
• change
• difference

Examples of modification in a Sentence

The program can be used on all computers without modification.

They passed the law with only a few minor modifications.

The weather required some major modifications to our travel plans.

Recent Examples on the Web

The machines will also be used to scan and assess older buildings, digitally map walls and structural elements, in addition to precisely marking where openings, cuts or modifications are required before construction work begins. —Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 15 Jan. 2026

States could use the data to work with providers to improve quality, test interventions, track progress, and make modifications to improve outcomes. —Jill Rosenthal, STAT, 14 Jan. 2026

The Jeep is itself based on today’s Ram 1500, which is known as the DT platform, with modifications for SUV duty. —Joel Feder, The Drive, 14 Jan. 2026

The nearly seamless version shared by Cooke is reminiscent of late 2000s Air Max Goadome Low Seamless releases, although this new pair features some modifications to the shoe’s leather upper. —Riley Jones, Footwear News, 14 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing modification

• behavioral modification
• behavior modification
• genetic modification
• pre-modification

Rhymes for modification

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

modification

noun

mod·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌmäd-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

a

: the act of modifying

b

: the state of being modified

2

: the limiting of a statement : qualification

3

: the result of modifying : partial change

modification of plans

Medical Definition

modification

noun

mod·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌmäd-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

: the act or result of modifying something

2

: a change in an organism that is not inherited and that is caused by the influence of its environment