# modifier

/ˈmɑdəˌfaɪɝ/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/modifier
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a word or phrase that adds extra information to another word to make it more specific. In computing, it is a key that changes the meaning of another key when pressed together.

For teachers: a word or phrase that qualifies or limits the meaning of another word. In a technical context, it refers to a key that alters the function of another key when pressed simultaneously.

## Examples

- The word 'very' is a common modifier.
- In the sentence 'the tall blue house', 'tall' and 'blue' are both modifiers for 'house'.
- The programmer added a logical modifier to the condition to ensure the loop would only execute if the variable met three specific criteria simultaneously.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.