Mod: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
September 26, 2025

1. Mod (noun): 1960s subculture.
2. Mod (noun): Software modification.
3. Mod (adjective): Modern or stylish.
4. Mod (verb): To customize.

The word "mod" primarily refers to a modification made to something, particularly in gaming, technology, or fashion. It can describe a person who modifies items or belongs to the British youth subculture that emerged in the 1960s, characterized by sharp fashion and scooter riding. In online communities, "mod" refers to a moderator who oversees discussions and enforces rules. Read on to uncover its detailed definitions, pronunciation, synonyms, and much more.

Mod Definition: What Does "Mod" Mean?

The word "mod" holds significant cultural and modern relevance. It can refer to a historic subculture, a technical alteration, or simply a descriptor for modern style. Below are its key definitions:

Definition of "Mod": 1960s Subculture

As a noun, "mod" refers to a subculture that emerged in Britain during the 1960s. Known for its association with modern jazz, tailored fashion, and scooters, it symbolized youth rebellion and style.

Definition of "Mod": Software Modification

"Mod" also describes a modification, particularly in technology and gaming. It refers to changes made to software or games to enhance functionality, aesthetics, or gameplay.

Definition of "Mod": Modern or Stylish

As an adjective, "mod" characterizes something as fashionable, sleek, or contemporary in appearance or behavior.

Definition of "Mod": To Customize

Used as a verb, "mod" means to modify or alter an object, system, or piece of software to personalize or improve it.

Parts of Speech

The word "mod" is incredibly versatile and functions as a noun, adjective, and verb. As a noun, it primarily represents a cultural movement or a modification. As an adjective, it describes something modern or stylish in appearance or essence. Finally, as a verb, it conveys the act of modifying or customizing something, often in the realms of technology or design.

How to Pronounce "Mod"?

The word "mod" is pronounced as "MAHD," rhyming with "cod," "nod," or "rod," with a short "o" sound like in "hot." It's a single-syllable word that should be spoken quickly and crisply, emphasizing the consonant sounds at both the beginning and end.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /mɒd/

Synonyms of "Mod": Other Ways to Say "Mod"

The term "mod" can be expressed using various synonyms depending on the context.

Below is a list of alternatives:

  • Modernist
  • Trendy
  • Fashionable
  • Hip
  • Alteration
  • Customization
  • Contemporary

Antonyms of "Mod": Other Ways to Say "Mod"

While "mod" represents modernity and customization, its antonyms convey the opposite.

Here are some examples:

  • Outdated
  • Traditional
  • Old-fashioned
  • Conventional
  • Unaltered
  • Classic
  • Primitive

Examples of "Mod" in a Sentence

The word "mod" can be used in various contexts to reflect its multiple meanings. Below are ten examples:

1. The mod culture of the 1960s left a lasting impact on fashion and music.
2. He installed a mod in his favorite video game to enhance the graphics.
3. Her mod haircut turned heads at the event.
4. The programmer decided to mod the software for better usability.
5. They hosted a party with a mod theme, complete with vintage scooters.
6. She added a custom mod to her car to improve its performance.
7. His outfit had a distinctly mod vibe, inspired by 1960s styles.
8. The designer created a mod version of the traditional dress.
9. He spent the weekend trying to mod his gaming console.
10. The app's latest update introduced a mod that users could apply to customize the interface.

Frequency of Use

The term "mod" is frequently used in niche contexts, such as gaming, technology, and cultural history. While its usage in everyday language has declined since its 1960s peak, it remains common in discussions about fashion, gaming, and customization trends.

Variants of "Mod"

The word "mod" has several variants that reflect its flexibility in different contexts. Here are a few examples:

  1. Mods: Refers to the plural form, often describing groups or multiple modifications.
  2. Modded: Describes something that has been customized or altered.
  3. Modding: The act of modifying or customizing something, particularly in gaming or technology.

Related Terms to "Mod"

Several related terms help expand the understanding of "mod" in its various contexts:

1. Modernism
2. Customization
3. Alteration
4. Retro
5. Scooter

Etymology: History and Origins of "Mod"

The term "mod" originated as a shorthand for "modernist" in 1960s Britain, symbolizing a youth subculture that valued style, individuality, and music. Its later usage in technology and gaming reflects its association with innovation and customization.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Mod"

"Mod" has inspired several derivatives and compounds that emphasize its versatility:

  1. Modder: A person who creates or applies modifications.
  2. Modular: Reflecting a design concept where components can be customized or replaced.
  3. Modulate: To adjust or alter something.

Common Misspellings of "Mod"

Misspellings of "mod" are rare due to its simplicity. However, a few possible errors include:

1. Mode
2. Mood
3. Mods (when incorrectly pluralized).

10 Idioms Similar to "Mod"

Although "mod" is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions, here are ten phrases that reflect similar ideas:

1. Ahead of the curve
2. Trendsetter
3. Cutting edge
4. State-of-the-art
5. Keep up with the times
6. Style icon
7. In vogue
8. Change the game
9. Sleek and chic
10. Move with the times

10 Common Questions About "Mod"

Below are frequently asked questions about the word "mod," along with their answers:

1. What does "mod" mean in gaming?

In gaming, "mod" refers to user-created modifications that enhance or change a game's content or functionality.

2. What is the origin of the word "mod"?

"Mod" originated as a shortened form of "modernist," linked to the 1960s British subculture.

3. Is "mod" still used today?

Yes, "mod" is still widely used in gaming, technology, and discussions about style and customization.

4. What are mods in software?

Mods are custom changes made to software to alter or improve its functionality.

5. What is the adjective form of "mod"?

The adjective "mod" describes something modern or stylish.

6. What is "modding" in gaming?

Modding refers to the process of creating or applying modifications to a game.

7. How does "mod" relate to fashion?

"Mod" fashion refers to the sleek, tailored styles popularized in the 1960s.

8. Can "mod" be used as a verb?

Yes, as a verb, "mod" means to modify or alter something.

9. Is "mod" used in design?

Yes, "mod" often refers to sleek, modern design aesthetics.

10. What does "mod" symbolize culturally?

"Mod" symbolizes rebellion, individuality, and a focus on modernity.

Conclusion

The word "mod" refers to a 1960s subculture, a modification in technology, or something modern and stylish. It symbolizes innovation, individuality, and contemporary relevance, making it a versatile term in various contexts. Incorporate "mod" into your vocabulary to explore its unique applications across culture, fashion, and technology.

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook. Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

U.S Dictionary is the premier dictionary about the English language as used in the United States of America.
Copyright © 2025 - U.S. Dictionary
Privacy Policy
magnifier