module

[ moj-ool ]

noun

1. a separable component, frequently one that is interchangeable with others, for assembly into units of differing size, complexity, or function.
2. any of the individual, self-contained segments of a spacecraft, designed to perform a particular task:

   the spacecraft's command module; a lunar module.

3. a standard or unit for measuring.
4. 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.
5. 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 ring ¹( def 23 ).
6. Computers.
   1. part of a program that performs a distinct function.
   2. an interchangeable, plug-in hardware unit.

module

/ ˈmɒdjuːl /

noun

1. 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
2. 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
3. a standardized unit designed to be added to or used as part of an arrangement of similar units, as in furniture
4. 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

5. 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 History and Origins

Origin of module¹

1555–65; < Latin modulus; modulus

Word History and Origins

Origin of module¹

C16: from Latin modulus, diminutive of modus mode

Example Sentences

The cellblock emptied of prison officials, Garcia broke all the glass in the module and sprayed a fire extinguisher, the report says.

From Los Angeles Times

The air flows through a pipe module situated behind the "trap door," generating an acoustic signal.

From Science Daily

Removing the safeguard would thus help advance Biden’s climate ambitions, while leaving Chinese solar cells and modules subject to several other, more targeted U.S. trade restrictions.

From Los Angeles Times

The University of Surrey are in the process of building a 12.5MW solar farm, where we can test some of these modules.

From Science Daily

Across England, job losses and cutbacks in courses are visible, in some cases reducing student choice through reducing modules or closing courses.

From BBC

Related Words

• any
• chunk
• component
• detail
• element
• factor
• item
• lot
• measure
• member
• piece
• section
• sector
• segment
• share
• side
• unit