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

Far fewer teams can quantify how autosuggest modifiers alter user behavior, how star-rating variance suppresses click-through rates or how ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews and other AI platforms characterize their brand in response to real user queries. — Paul M. Wilson, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2026

But Wisconsin has fairly narrow requirements for the domestic abuse modifier to be added to a crime. — Kelli Arseneau, jsonline.com, 9 Sep. 2026

Boileau knows from experience that finding modifier genes can pave the way to lifesaving therapies. — Roxanne Khamsi, The Atlantic, 7 July 2026

While these keyboards coincide with the July release of a new The Ghost in the Shell anime, their looks are based on the 1995 film by Mamoru Oshii, with close-ups of characters’ faces on several modifier keys. — Antonio G. Di Benedetto, The Verge, 18 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1682, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing modifier

• squinting modifier

Rhymes for modifier

• acquire
• attire
• bonfire
• campfire
• ceasefire
• conspire
• desire
• enquire
• entire
• greenbrier
• gunfire
• homebuyer

Kids 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