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Synonyms

module

American  
[moj-ool] / ˈmɒdʒ ul /

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.

  6. Computers.

    1. part of a program that performs a distinct function.

    2. an interchangeable, plug-in hardware unit.


module British  
/ 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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of module

1555–65; < Latin modulus; modulus

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Those efforts will play out in Orion’s crew module, which has about two minivans worth of living area.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 29, 2026

It is also exploring the use of small module reactors and nuclear energy, Hsiao adds.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

The module is pluggable, meaning that it can be easily switched out without needing to interfere with other hardware.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 18, 2026

A university spokesperson said the content warning "enables students to make an informed decision before choosing the module".

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

There were many other emergencies in which the lunar module might find itself, and the command-module pilot’s job as rescuer was a very complex one.

From "Flying to the Moon: An Astronaut's Story" by Michael Collins