Noah Webster
Modify
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.