modulate

[moj-uh-leyt]

verb (used with object)

modulated, modulating 

1. to regulate by or adjust to a certain measure or proportion; soften; tone down.

2. to alter or adapt (the voice) according to the circumstances, one's listener, etc.

   Synonyms: control, temper

3. Music.

   1. to attune to a certain pitch or key.

   2. to vary the volume of (tone).

4. Telecommunications.,  to cause the amplitude, frequency, phase, or intensity of (a carrier wave) to vary in accordance with a sound wave or other signal, the frequency of the signal wave usually being very much lower than that of the carrier.

verb (used without object)

modulated, modulating 

1. Telecommunications.

   1. to modulate a carrier wave.

   2. Citizens Band Radio Slang.,  to talk; visit.

      Enjoyed modulating with you.

2. Music.,  to pass from one key to another.

   to modulate abruptly from A to B flat.

modulate

/ ˈmɒdjʊˌleɪt, ˌmɒdjʊləˈbɪlɪtɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to change the tone, pitch, or volume of

2. (tr) to adjust or regulate the degree of

3. music

   1. to subject to or undergo modulation in music

   2. (often foll by to) to make or become in tune (with a pitch, key, etc)

4. (tr) physics electronics to cause to vary by a process of modulation

modulate

1. To vary the amplitude, frequency, or some other characteristic of a signal or power source.

2. See also amplitude modulation frequency modulation

Other Word Forms

• modulability noun
• modulative adjective
• modulatory adjective
• remodulate verb (used with object)
• unmodulated adjective
• unmodulative adjective
• well-modulated adjective
• modulator noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of modulate¹

1550–60; < Latin modulātus (past participle of modulārī to regulate (sounds), set to music, play an instrument). See module, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of modulate¹

C16: from Latin modulātus in due measure, melodious, from modulārī to regulate, from modus measure

Example Sentences

These findings support the development of targeted therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating thrombo-inflammatory responses.

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By engaging receptor trafficking at the cell membrane, they provide a new way to modulate receptor activity.

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Most political and foreign-policy actions can be modulated, corrected or refined over time.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

"Physical exercise is one of these factors that can benefit the immune system, and in this research project, we're investigating how it can modulate the immune response over time," he says.

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Despite his apparent willingness to modulate his stance based on new information, he remains cautious about declaring either a labor-market slump or victory over inflation.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• inflect