# modular

/ˈmɑdʒəɫɝ/ (US) · /mˈɒdjʊlɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/modular
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. made of separate parts

adjective · CEFR B2

made of separate parts or units that can be joined together in different ways.

For teachers: composed of standardized units or sections that allow for easy assembly, repair, or reconfiguration.

- We bought a modular sofa so we could change the layout of our living room later.
- The architect proposed a modular housing system, allowing residents to add or remove rooms as their family needs evolved over time.

### 2. software or hardware design

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

describes computer programs or machines made of independent pieces that work together.

For teachers: relating to a design approach where a system is divided into smaller parts that can be independently created and used in different systems.

- Modular software is easier to fix because you can update one part without breaking the rest.
- By adopting a modular architecture, the development team ensured that individual components could be tested in isolation before being integrated into the primary codebase.

Usage: Often used to describe code architecture or hardware components like power supplies.

### 3. mathematical systems

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical

relating to a type of math where numbers wrap around after reaching a certain value, like a clock.

For teachers: relating to or based on a modulus, typically involving arithmetic where numbers reset after reaching a specific value.

- Clock time is a simple example of modular arithmetic because it resets after twelve.
- Modular arithmetic serves as the foundational logic for many modern encryption algorithms used to secure digital communications.

Usage: Commonly appears in the phrase 'modular arithmetic'.

## Examples

- The new office has modular furniture that we can rearrange.
- The software was built using a modular approach, allowing developers to update the payment system without touching the user database.
- By adopting a modular architecture, the engineering team ensured that individual hardware components could be upgraded independently as technology advanced, significantly extending the satellite's operational lifespan.

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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.