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

Playing the raid with incredibly challenging modifiers gives you a chance at a Tier 4 Playing Trials of Osiris at anything under 400 power will not give you Tier 5s, even from a flawless chest, which now has a one per week lockout. —Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2025

The first 500 customers at the July 19 grand opening will gain a digital offer in the Tim Hortons app that can be activated once a day for a month and is good for one free small coffee, hot or iced with flavors and modifiers included, according to the company. —Andy Humbles, The Tennessean, 13 July 2025

Other genes then act as modifiers, leading to color dilution, white patches, tabby pattern, and more. —Maria Azzurra Volpe, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 June 2025

Many bars now offer new takes using different liqueurs or modifiers while keeping the same format. —Rachel King, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing modifier

• squinting modifier

Rhymes for modifier

• amplifier
• clarifier
• classifier
• gasifier
• magnifier
• multiplier
• occupier
• pacifier
• purifier
• qualifier
• quantifier
• rectifier

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