noun
modus
MOH-duhs
Modus (noun) means a particular way of doing something or arranging the terms of an agreement. Example: “The contract set out a specific modus for splitting the profits.”
noun
1
A particular way of doing something or arranging the terms of an agreement.
"The contract set out a specific modus for splitting the profits."
"Each clause described the modus by which payment would be made."
2
(law) A payment made in place of an obligation such as a tithe.
"The estate paid a fixed modus instead of handing over a share of its crops."
How to use modus
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA formal term for the specific way something is arranged or done, often used in legal or academic contexts.
Common mistake
Rarely used alone in everyday English — most people know it only from phrases like "modus operandi" (method of operating).
Common pairings
modus operandi
modus vivendi
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Word forms
- Plural
- modi
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The contract set out a specific _____ for splitting the profits.
Etymology
From Latin modus, meaning "measure" or "manner" — the same root that gives us the word "mode."
Rhymes for modus
See all rhymes for modus →Frequently asked questions
What does “modus” mean?
The word “modus” means a particular way of doing something or arranging the terms of an agreement. In plain terms, a formal term for the specific way something is arranged or done, often used in legal or academic contexts.
How do you pronounce “modus”?
“Modus” is pronounced MOH-duhs (/ˈməʊdəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “modus” in a sentence?
Here is “modus” used in a sentence: “The contract set out a specific modus for splitting the profits.”
What part of speech is “modus”?
“Modus” is a noun.
Where does the word “modus” come from?
The word “modus” comes from Latin. From Latin modus, meaning "measure" or "manner" — the same root that gives us the word "mode.".
How many meanings does “modus” have?
“Modus” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a particular way of doing something or arranging the terms of an agreement.
