Modulate
/ˈmɒd.jʊ.leɪt/noun
To adjust or vary the strength, tone, or pitch of something.
Did you know?In ancient musical theory, modulation was seen as a way to invoke different emotional states, almost like casting a spell through sound!
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*meḱ-
“to measure, to consider, or to limit.”
Latin
Latin
modulāre
“to measure, regulate, or adjust, especially in music.”
Old French
Old French
moduler
“to adjust or adapt, particularly in a musical context.”
Late Middle English
Middle English
modulaten
“to vary the tone or pitch, especially in music.”
Modern English
English
modulate
“to control or adjust the frequency or amplitude of a wave or signal.”