modular

[moj-uh-ler]

adjective

1. of or relating to a module or a modulus.

2. composed of standardized units or sections for easy construction or flexible arrangement.

   a modular home; a modular sofa.

3. Mathematics.,  (of a lattice) having the property that for any two elements with one less than the other, the union of the smaller element with the intersection of the larger element and any third element of the lattice is equal to the intersection of the larger element with the union of the smaller element and the third element.

4. Computers.,  composed of software or hardware modules that can be altered or replaced without affecting the remainder of the system.

noun

1. something, as a house or piece of furniture, built or organized in self-contained units or sections.

2. a self-contained unit or item, as of furniture, that can be combined or interchanged with others like it to create different shapes or designs.

modular

/ ˌmɒdjʊˈlærɪtɪ, ˈmɒdjʊlə /

adjective

1. of, consisting of, or resembling a module or modulus

Other Word Forms

• modularity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of modular¹

From the New Latin word modulāris, dating back to 1790–1800. See module, -ar ¹

Example Sentences

Much of the recent focus has centered on SMRs, or small modular reactors, that can be cheaper and faster to build.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Until small modular reactors scale and governments streamline approvals, nuclear remains a story of potential, not profit.

Read more on MarketWatch

The hangout chair is part of a modular system with a floating bar, hammocks, tubes, and loungers that can be connected to create an in-water playpen.

Read more on Salon

The decision to opt for small modular reactors at Wylfa was criticised by the US Ambassador Warren Stephens, who said he was "extremely disappointed" by the decision.

Read more on BBC

There are those, including US ambassador Warren Stephens, who would have preferred a large-scale nuclear power station on the island, but this small modular reactor would nonetheless bring jobs and investment.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• commutable 
• interchangeable 
• standard