modular

1 of 2

adjective

mod·​u·​lar ˈmä-jə-lər How to pronounce modular (audio)
Synonyms of modularnext
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 How to pronounce modular (audio)
-ˈla-rə-tē
noun
modularly
ˈmä-jə-lər-lē How to pronounce modular (audio)
adverb

modularity

2 of 2

noun

mod·​u·​lar·​i·​ty ˌmäjəˈlarə̇tē How to pronounce modularity (audio)
-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
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.
Adjective
Among the litany of travel cases is a modular three-piece trunk designed to fit perfectly beneath the hood. — Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 13 Aug. 2026 Highlighted for its modular construction to ease servicing and new mirror-like livery, it was originally intended to succeed SpaceShipTwo. — Robert Pearlman, ArsTechnica, 13 Aug. 2026 Despite challenges like upfront investment and upgrade downtime, modular deployment and flexible financing offer viable paths forward. — Tim Walsh, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 For the sofa, Kut opted for a modular pale gray Burrow number that tucks into the corner for comfortable lounging and doubles as a twin bed for overnight visitors. — Morgan Goldberg, Architectural Digest, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for modular

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of modular was in 1815

Phrases Containing modular

Rhymes for modular

See All Rhymes for modular

Browse Nearby Words

modulability
modular
modular arithmetic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Modular.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modular. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

modular

adjective
mod·​u·​lar ˈmäj-ə-lər How to pronounce modular (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on modular

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for modular

Nglish: Translation of modular for Spanish Speakers

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