noun B1 Intermediate Uncommon

modem

MOH-duhm

Modem (noun) means a device that converts digital signals into a form that can travel over phone or cable lines, and back again, allowing computers to connect to a network. Example: “The internet went down after the modem lost power.”

noun

A device that converts digital signals into a form that can travel over phone or cable lines, and back again, allowing computers to connect to a network.

"The internet went down after the modem lost power."

"He plugged the router directly into the modem."

How to use modem

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe box that connects your home to the internet by translating signals back and forth.

Common pairings

cable modem reset the modem modem and router

Word forms

modemed past tense, modemmed past tense, modems plural, modems singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The internet went down after the _____ lost power.

Etymology

A blend of "modulator" and "demodulator," describing the two jobs the device performs.

Frequently asked questions

What does “modem” mean?

The word “modem” means a device that converts digital signals into a form that can travel over phone or cable lines, and back again, allowing computers to connect to a network. In plain terms, the box that connects your home to the internet by translating signals back and forth.

How do you pronounce “modem”?

“Modem” is pronounced MOH-duhm (/ˈmoʊdəm/ in IPA).

How do you use “modem” in a sentence?

Here is “modem” used in a sentence: “The internet went down after the modem lost power.”

What part of speech is “modem”?

“Modem” is a noun.

Is “modem” a common word?

“Modem” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

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Words that end with M