English Reference

Word

modified

Phoneticsmod·i·fied, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈmɑdəˌfaɪd/

UK/mˈɒdɪfˌaɪd/

Definitions

01changed or adjusted

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. changed from its original form to be more useful or suitable.

adj. having undergone transformation or adjustment from an original state, often to improve functionality or meet specific requirements.

“The chef served a modified version of the dish for guests who do not eat meat.”

“The engineering team presented a modified design that addressed the safety concerns raised during the initial round of stress testing.”

02racing vehicle

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Sports Technical

n. a type of car used in special races that has been heavily changed from a normal car.

n. a vehicle specifically constructed or heavily altered for use in modified racing, typically featuring custom chassis and engines.

“He spent all weekend working on his modified for the upcoming race at the dirt track.”

“The driver struggled to handle the modified on the slick surface, as the high-torque engine was almost too powerful for the track conditions.”

Synonyms

Antonyms

stock car

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “modified” in context.

Adjective

01. modified form

“The virus exists in a modified form that is much less dangerous to humans.”

adj + noun

02. modified model

“The engineers tested a modified model of the engine to improve fuel efficiency.”

adj + noun

03. modified version

“The software developer released a modified version of the app to fix the recent bugs.”

adj + noun

Real-World Examples

“The discovery introduces a new tool: Light-sensitive proteins can now be modified not only through genetic engineering, but also through smart nanostructures.”
Phys.org 28 Aug 2026
“A modified peanut digger cut the roots below ground, lifted the plants and placed them in windrows with the burrs attached, representing the first stage of a proposed two-stage system.”
Phys.org 28 Aug 2026

Etymology

From modify + -ed.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Common
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

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English Reference