modify
[mod-uh-fahy]
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verb (used with object), mod·i·fied, mod·i·fy·ing.
to change somewhat the form or qualities of; alter partially; amend: to modify a contract.
Grammar. (of a word, phrase, or clause) to stand in a syntactically subordinate relation to (another word, phrase, or clause), usually with descriptive, limiting, or particularizing meaning; be a modifier. In a good man, good modifies man.
to be the modifier or attribute of.
to change (a vowel) by umlaut.
to reduce or lessen in degree or extent; moderate; soften: to modify one's demands.
verb (used without object), mod·i·fied, mod·i·fy·ing.
to be or become modified.
Origin of modify
Synonyms for modify
Synonym study
5. Modify, qualify, temper suggest altering an original statement, condition, or the like, so as to avoid anything excessive or extreme. To modify is to alter in one or more particulars, generally in the direction of leniency or moderation: to modify demands, rates. To qualify is to restrict or limit by exceptions or conditions: to qualify one's praise, hopes. To temper is to alter the quality of something, generally so as to diminish its force or harshness: to temper one's criticism with humor.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for modifiability
Historical Examples of modifiability
There appears indeed to be hardly any limit to the almost infinite plasticity and modifiability of domestic animals.
Charles DarwinGrant Allen
As has been already suggested, one of the most important characteristics of all these tendencies is their modifiability.
How to TeachGeorge Drayton Strayer and Naomi Norsworthy
The plasticity of neurone groups seems to vary in two respects--as to modifiability and as to power to hold modifications.
How to TeachGeorge Drayton Strayer and Naomi Norsworthy
All neurones have the three characteristics of sensitivity, conductivity, and modifiability.
Principles of TeachingAdam S. Bennion
modify
verb -fies, -fying or -fied (mainly tr)
Word Origin for modify
C14: from Old French modifier, from Latin modificāre to limit, control, from modus measure + facere to make
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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modify
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper