# modify

Pronunciation: say "MO-di-fy" US /ˈmɑdɪfaɪ/, UK /ˈmɒdɪfaɪ/

## Verb

1. To change a part of something, altering some details while leaving the rest as it was.
   - Simple: To change one part of something while leaving the rest the same.
   - _The engineers modified the engine to reduce fuel consumption._
   - _We can modify the contract before either side signs it._
2. To restrict or add detail to the meaning of another word in a sentence.
   - Simple: To add to or limit the meaning of another word, the way adjectives and adverbs do.
   - _Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, and even other adverbs._
   - _The word "red" modifies "car" in the phrase "red car."_
3. To undergo change; to be or become altered.
   - Simple: To change, or to become changed, in some way.
   - _Languages modify gradually as speakers pick up new habits._
   - _The original design modified over several years of testing._
4. To set limits on something; to make it more moderate.
   - Simple: To keep something within limits and make it less extreme.
   - _The judge modified the sentence to reflect the unusual circumstances._
   - _Good leaders modify their demands when the situation calls for restraint._

## Origin

From Middle English modifien, from Middle French modifier, from Latin modificare ("to limit, control, regulate"), built from modus ("measure") plus facere ("to make").

Source: DictionaryAI, https://dictionaryai.com/define/modify (written from Wiktionary data, CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/).