module

[ moj-ool ]
/ ˈmɒdʒ ul /
SEE SYNONYMS FOR module ON THESAURUS.COM

noun

a separable component, frequently one that is interchangeable with others, for assembly into units of differing size, complexity, or function.
any of the individual, self-contained segments of a spacecraft, designed to perform a particular task: the spacecraft's command module; a lunar module.
a standard or unit for measuring.
a selected unit of measure, ranging in size from a few inches to several feet, used as a basis for the planning and standardization of building materials.
Mathematics. an Abelian group with a set of left or right operators forming a ring such that for any two operators and any group element the result of having the first operator act on the element, giving a second element, and the second operator act on the second element is equal to the result of having a single operator, formed by adding or multiplying the two operators, act on the first element. Compare ring1(def 23).
Computers.
  1. part of a program that performs a distinct function.
  2. an interchangeable, plug-in hardware unit.

Origin of module

1555–65; < Latin modulus; see modulus

WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH module

mode module

Words nearby module

modularity, modularize, modulate, modulation, modulator, module, modulo, modulus, modulus of elasticity, modulus of rigidity, modus operandi

Words related to module

sector, chunk, any, share, section, factor, component, detail, element, member, item, lot, measure, piece, segment, side, unit, arm, capsule, spacecraft

Example sentences from the Web for module

British Dictionary definitions for module

module
/ (ˈmɒdjuːl) /

noun

a self-contained unit or item, such as an assembly of electronic components and associated wiring or a segment of computer software, which itself performs a defined task and can be linked with other such units to form a larger system
a standard unit of measure, esp one used to coordinate the dimensions of buildings and components; in classical architecture, half the diameter of a column at the base of the shaft
a standardized unit designed to be added to or used as part of an arrangement of similar units, as in furniture
astronautics any of several self-contained separable units making up a spacecraft or launch vehicle, each of which has one or more specified tasks command module; service module
education a short course of study, esp of a vocational or technical subject, that together with other such completed courses can count towards a particular qualification

Word Origin for module

C16: from Latin modulus, diminutive of modus mode