MOD'IFY, verb transitive [Latin modificor; modus, limit, manner, and facio, to make.]

1. To change the form or external qualities of a thing; to shape; to give a new form of being to; as, to modify matter, light or sound.

2. To vary; to give a new form to any thing; as, to modify the terms of a contract. A prefix modifies the sense of a verb.

3. To moderate; to qualify; to reduce in extent or degree.

Of his grace

He modifies his first severe decree.

MOD'IFY, verb intransitive To extenuate.