module

noun

mod·​ule ˈmä-(ˌ)jül How to pronounce module (audio)
1
: a standard or unit of measurement
2
: the size of some one part taken as a unit of measure by which the proportions of an architectural composition are regulated
3
a
: any in a series of standardized units for use together: such as
(1)
: a unit of furniture or architecture
(2)
: an educational unit which covers a single subject or topic
b
: a usually packaged functional assembly of electronic components for use with other such assemblies
the subwoofer module
4
: an independently operable unit that is a part of the total structure of a space vehicle
5
a
: a subset of an additive group that is also a group under addition
b
: a mathematical set that is a commutative group under addition and that is closed under multiplication which is distributive from the left or right or both by elements of a ring and for which a(bx) = (ab)x or (xb)a = x(ba) or both where a and b are elements of the ring and x belongs to the set

Examples of module in a Sentence

factories that build engines, transmissions, brakes, and other modules for cars a memory module for storing information
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Following launch, astronauts aboard the International Space Station will use the Canadarm2 robotic arm to capture Cygnus and install the spacecraft to the Unity module’s Earth-facing port for cargo unloading. Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 Apr. 2026 New video shows the moment that the Artemis II astronauts were welcomed back to Earth as a Navy medical team opened the hatch to their Orion module after the crew splashed down safely in the Pacific following their historic journey around the moon. Stephen Sorace, FOXNews.com, 14 Apr. 2026 Among the specific research studies being delivered are quantum science module that could advance the hunt for dark matter, as well as improve computing technology and the equipment needed to increase therapeutic stem cell production to treat cancer and blood diseases. Robert Z. Pearlman, Space.com, 13 Apr. 2026 According to Sierra Space—the division of the Sierra Nevada Corporation that now operates the spacecraft—an unpiloted version of Dream Chaser had been slated to resupply the ISS at least seven times, using a detachable module to deliver up to six tons of cargo. Tom Metcalfe, Scientific American, 13 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for module

Word History

Etymology

Latin modulus

First Known Use

circa 1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of module was circa 1628

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Cite this Entry

“Module.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/module. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

module

noun
mod·​ule ˈmäj-ü(ə)l How to pronounce module (audio)
1
a
: any in a series of similar units for use together
b
: a usually packaged collection of parts (as for an electronic device)
2
: an independent unit of a space vehicle
a propulsion module

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