Category: GeneralPart of speech: nounDifficulty: Intermediate

modules

/modules/Roman
US/ˈmɑdʒuɫz/
UK/mˈɒdjuːlz/

English meaning: Modules

Definition

A self-contained component of a system, often interchangeable, which has a well-defined interface to the other components.

Example

“The software is built from separate modules that can be updated independently.”

Another example: “The degree is divided into twelve modules taught over two years.”

Usage — When, Where & How

Plural of 'module', a neutral technical noun for a self-contained, often interchangeable component of a larger system, used in computing, engineering, education ('course modules'), and spaceflight. Common in technical and academic contexts.

Etymology & Origin

English — Origin & History

From Latin 'modulus' (a small measure), diminutive of 'modus' (measure); the component sense developed in the 20th century in engineering and computing.

Synonyms

Related Words

Common Collocations

  • software modules
  • training modules
  • course modules
  • lunar modules
  • plug-in modules
  • reusable modules

Word Forms

module (n); modules (pl); modular (adj)

Word Tools

3 syllables

Literary Heritage

“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”

/To thine own self be true/

“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”

William Shakespeare · Playwright & Poet · 1564–1616

Hamlet, Act II

Hamlet, II.i — Polonius's parting words to Laertes; the most quoted line in Shakespeare

“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”

/I'm nobody! Who are you?/

“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”

Emily Dickinson · Poet · 1830–1886

Poems

Poem 288 — Dickinson's subversive celebration of solitude over social recognition

Images

CC-licensed · free to use
More on Wikimedia
Loading images…

Video

Language information

Language
English
English
Script
Latin
Family
Indo-European
Speakers
1.5B
Back to English Dictionary