verb
modulate
MAH-juh-layt/ˈmɑːdʒəleɪt/
To control variation in a signal's level or character.
The technician modulates the sound level by adjusting the mixing-board fader.
Etymology
Latin modulari linked measured regulation with rhythmic performance. English modulate, possibly formed from modulation rather than directly from the Latin verb, broadened from varying musical sound to adjusting strength or level more generally.
In context
… floatation seems to modulate interoceptive awareness possibly by increasing the signal-to-noise ratio of body signals …
More examples
- The circuit modulates the signal's amplitude without changing its frequency.
- The engineer modulated the light beam to transmit data.
- The synthesizer modulates the tone to create a wavering sound.
Forms
modulate · modulates · modulated · modulating
modulation noun — Controlled variation in a signal's level or character.
modulator noun — A device that varies a carrier signal.