modality

[ moh-dal-i-tee ]

noun

, plural mo·dal·i·ties.

1. the quality or state of being modal.
2. an attribute or circumstance that denotes mode or manner.
3. Also called mode. Logic. the classification of propositions according to whether they are contingently true or false, possible, impossible, or necessary.
4. Medicine/Medical. the application of a therapeutic agent, usually a physical therapeutic agent.
5. one of the primary forms of sensation, as vision or touch.

Other Words From

• multi·mo·dali·ty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of modality¹

From the Medieval Latin word modālitās, dating back to 1610–20. See modal, -ity

Example Sentences

“It’s probably the most important fitness modality out there for longevity,” says Dr. Christina Chen, a Mayo Clinic geriatrician and host of the podcast “Aging Forward.”

From Los Angeles Times

Its gleaming picture windows and grass-green exterior might as well have been the gates to the Emerald City, behind which mysterious healing modalities awaited.

From Los Angeles Times

Maybe you’ve seen one at your GOOP-iest friend’s apartment or at an alternative healthcare practice where new healing modalities are welcome and plain old tap water is absolutely not.

From Los Angeles Times

Its gleaming picture windows and grass green exterior might as well have been the gates to the Emerald City, behind which mysterious healing modalities awaited.

From Los Angeles Times

Existing robotic datasets vary widely in modality -- some include color images while others are composed of tactile imprints, for instance.

From Science Daily