Ways or manners of doing something; methods or forms of operation. In music, different scales or patterns of notes that create distinct sounds.
From Latin 'modus' meaning 'measure, manner, or way,' related to 'modulus' (small measure). The word entered English via Old French and has maintained its core meaning of 'method' or 'way of being' across many fields.
In ancient Greek music theory, modes weren't just scales but were believed to affect human emotions and character - the Dorian mode made people brave, while the Lydian made them soft. This idea that different 'modes' of expression shape personality persists in how we think about lifestyle choices today.
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