ˈmäjəˌlād.ə(r), -ātə- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin, from modulatus (past participle of modulari to modulate) + -or
1. : one that modulates: as
a. : a device (as an electron tube) for modulating a carrier wave or signal for the transmission of intelligence (as in telegraphy, telephony, radio, television)
b. : light valve — called also light modulator
2. : any of the nerve fibers that carry impulses from single retinal cones and are believed to be responsible for the transmission of discrete sensations of color