modular

1 of 2

adjective

mod·​u·​lar ˈmä-jə-lər 

1

: of, relating to, or based on a module or a modulus

2

: constructed with standardized units or dimensions for flexibility and variety in use

modular furniture

modularity

ˌmä-jə-ˈler-ə-tē 

-ˈla-rə-tē

noun

modularly

ˈmä-jə-lər-lē 

adverb

modularity

2 of 2

noun

mod·​u·​lar·​i·​ty ˌmäjəˈlarə̇tē 

-ler-

plural -es

1

: the use of discrete functional units in building an electronic or mechanical system

2

: a feature of a computer language that allows programs to be composed of modules

Examples of modular in a Sentence

Adjective

In many offices, desks are separated by modular walls that can be moved around.

a factory that produces modular homes

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Later, Carter ordered the VA to immediately install about 100 modular units. — Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2026

It is being developed as a standalone small modular reactor campus targeting up to 1 GW of advanced nuclear generation. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 10 Sep. 2026

In design, New Balance partnered with Swiss furniture maker USM during Paris Fashion Week to create bespoke modular trunks for its latest and upcoming products. — Alison Bringé, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2026

Likewise, the coefficients of the terms with prime exponents shape a modular form. — Quanta Magazine, 9 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

modular + -ity

First Known Use

Adjective

1815, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1937, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing modular

• modular arithmetic

Rhymes for modular

• nodular

Kids Definition

modular

adjective

mod·​u·​lar ˈmäj-ə-lər 

1

: of, relating to, or based on a module or modulus

2

: constructed in similar sizes or with similar units for flexibility and variety in use