English Reference

Word

module

Phoneticsmod·ule, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈmɑdʒuɫ/

UK/mˈɒdjuːl/

Definitions

01education unit

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. one part of a school or university course that focuses on a specific topic.

n. a self-contained unit of instruction within a broader curriculum, typically assessed independently.

“In my second year, I chose a module on ancient history.”

“The degree programme is structured into ten core modules, each designed to provide a comprehensive overview of modern economic theory.”

Usage

often used with 'on' or 'in' to describe the subject matter.

02computing/software

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Computing Technical

n. a separate part of a computer program that handles one specific task.

n. a functional component of a software system that is developed and tested independently before being integrated.

“The developer updated the payment module to include new security features.”

“By isolating the database logic into a separate module, the engineering team ensured that the interface could be updated without affecting data integrity.”

Usage

frequently used in the context of modular programming.

Synonyms

componentsubroutine

03spacecraft part

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Science

n. a self-contained section of a spacecraft that has a special job.

n. a detachable, independent section of a spacecraft designed for a specific function, such as landing or housing the crew.

“The lunar module detached from the main ship to land on the moon.”

“The astronauts spent several hours in the service module performing routine maintenance on the life-support systems before the final descent.”

Synonyms

04interchangeable component

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Technical

n. a standard part of a machine or building that can be easily replaced or joined with others.

n. a standardised unit or component used in construction or manufacturing that allows for flexible assembly and replacement.

“The office was built using modules that could be moved to change the room layout.”

“The architect utilised prefabricated modules to accelerate the construction timeline while maintaining strict quality control across all residential units.”

Synonyms

05mathematics

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Mathematics Academic · Technical

n. a special type of mathematical set used in advanced algebra.

n. an algebraic structure consisting of an abelian group and a ring, acting as a generalisation of a vector space.

“The professor explained how a module differs from a simple vector space.”

“In advanced linear algebra, the study of modules over a principal ideal domain provides a unified framework for understanding various structural theorems.”

Real-World Examples

“The Pixel 11 Pro Fold still has that off-center camera module, which makes it less stable.”
Ars Technica 19 Aug 2026
“While the Touring uses a 16-module, 89-kWh battery pack, the Grand Touring’s 22-module pack delivers 123 kWh, and power output grows from 560 hp (418 kW) to 828 hp (617 kW).”
Ars Technica 17 Jul 2026

Etymology

Borrowed from French module, from Latin modulus (“a small measure, a measure, mode, meter”), diminutive of modus (“measure”) (whence mode). Doublet of modulus and mold.

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

Word family

NOUN

module(B2)

ADJECTIVE

Domains

ArchitectureComputingMathematicsMusicProgramming

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
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

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English Reference