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Module

MOD-yool /ˈmɒdjuːl/

nounC1

technicalformal

Each of a set of standardized parts or independent units that can be used to construct a more complex structure. (In software) A self-contained unit of code that performs a specific task and can be reused or combined with other modules.

Modules promote modular programming, making code easier to understand, test, and maintain. They encapsulate related functionality, hiding internal details and exposing only what's necessary.

The story behind the word. The word 'module' comes from the Latin 'modulus,' a diminutive of 'modus,' meaning 'measure, manner, way.' It originally referred to a small measure or a standard unit. In architecture, it described a standard unit of proportion. In the mid-20th century, with the rise of complex systems, it was adopted to describe self-contained, interchangeable units, particularly in electronics and then software, emphasizing the idea of building larger systems from smaller, measurable, and independent parts.

Word relationships

component: A part or element of a larger whole, often used interchangeably with 'module' in software.
unit: A single thing or person regarded as an individual and complete element in a larger whole.
package: In some languages, a 'package' is a collection of related modules.

Commonly confused with

Function: A function is a block of code that performs a task; a module is a file or collection of functions (and other code) that provides a set of related functionalities.

Word family

modular (adjective): Composed of separate units that can be combined.
modularity (noun): The extent to which a system's components can be separated and recombined.

Collocations

software module
Python module
reusable module
core module
import a module

Example sentences

"The software was designed with a modular architecture, allowing different teams to work on separate modules simultaneously." In software development.
"This Python module provides functions for interacting with the operating system's file system." Referring to a specific component.
"The furniture arrived in several flat-pack modules that needed to be assembled." General usage.

Memory hook

Think of a 'MODULE' as a 'MOD'ular unit that you can easily 'USE' to build something bigger. Mod Use Unit

When not to use

Don't use 'module' for a tiny, single line of code. It implies a substantial, self-contained block of functionality.

Fun facts

Modular programming is a key principle in modern software engineering, promoting code reusability and easier maintenance.
Many programming languages have built-in mechanisms for creating and importing modules, such as Python's `import` statement.

Related words

Function, Framework, Integrate

Explore more words

modular, Component, boilerplate, cell, standardized, Architecture

Also appears in

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