/moj"oohl/ , n.
1. a separable component, frequently one that is interchangeable with others, for assembly into units of differing size, complexity, or function.
2. any of the individual, self-contained segments of a spacecraft, designed to perform a particular task: the spacecraft's command module; a lunar module.
3. a standard or unit for measuring.
4. a selected unit of measure, ranging in size from a few inches to several feet, used as a basis for the planning and standardization of building materials.
5. Math. an Abelian group with a set of left or right operators forming a ring such that for any two operators and any group element the result of having the first operator act on the element, giving a second element, and the second operator act on the second element is equal to the result of having a single operator, formed by adding or multiplying the two operators, act on the first element. Cf. ring 1 (def. 23).
6. Computers.
a. part of a program that performs a distinct function.
b. an interchangeable, plug-in hardware unit.
[ 1555-65; modulus; see MODULUS ]