Dictionary

modulate

verb mod·u·late \ˈmä-jə-ˌlāt\

: to change the sound of (your voice) by making it quieter, higher, lower, etc.

music : to move gradually from one key to another

: to change or adjust (something) so that it exists in a balanced or proper amount

mod·u·lat·edmod·u·lat·ing

Full Definition of MODULATE

transitive verb
1
:  to tune to a key or pitch
2
:  to adjust to or keep in proper measure or proportion :  temper
3
:  to vary the amplitude, frequency, or phase of (a carrier wave or a light wave) for the transmission of information (as by radio); also :  to vary the velocity of electrons in an electron beam
intransitive verb
1
:  to play or sing with modulation
2
:  to pass from one musical key into another by means of intermediary chords or notes that have some relation to both keys
3
:  to pass gradually from one state to another
mod·u·la·tor \-ˌlā-tər\ noun
mod·u·la·to·ry \-lə-ˌtōr-ē, -ˌtr-\ adjective
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Origin of MODULATE

Latin modulatus, past participle of modulari to play, sing, from modulus small measure, rhythm, diminutive of modus measure — more at mete
First Known Use: 1615

Rhymes with MODULATE

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Medical Dictionary

modulate

transitive verb mod·u·late \ˈmäj-ə-ˌlāt\
mod·u·lat·edmod·u·lat·ing

Medical Definition of MODULATE

:  to adjust to or keep in proper measure or proportion <modulate an immune response> <modulate cell activity>
mod·u·la·to·ry \-lə-ˌtōr-ē, -ˌtr-\ adjective

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