Search Dictionary
Definition of modify

modify

/ˈmɒdɪfaɪ/
mod · i · fy
Adjective:modifiable
•
Past Simple:modified
•
Past Participle:modified
•
Present Participle:modifying
JUMP TO:

modify Lexical Profile

modify Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make partial or minor changes to something, typically so as to improve it or make it more suitable.

Example

"The engineers decided to modify the aircraft wing design to improve fuel efficiency."

2

To describe, limit, or qualify the meaning of another word or phrase (in grammar).

Example

"In the phrase 'red apple,' the adjective 'red' serves to modify the noun 'apple.'"

3

To make less extreme, severe, or uncompromising; to moderate.

Example

"Facing strong public opposition, the committee agreed to modify its demands."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for modify
Antonyms
View all antonyms for modify

• Rhymes for modify

• Nearby Words

modifiable
modification
modifier
modify
modular
modularization
modularly

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French modifier, which derives from Latin modificare ('to limit, measure off, or restrain'), formed from modus ('measure' or 'manner') and facere ('to make').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Modify. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/modify
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.