An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. Relating or belonging to present and recent time. → modern physics.
   

2. Of or pertaining to the historical period following the Middle Ages.
   

3. Of the latest, most advanced kind, or using the most advanced equipment and techniques available.

Etymology (EN): From M.Fr. moderne, from L.L. modernus, from L. modo “lately, just now,” from modo “to the measure,” ablative of modus “manner, measure,” → mode.

Etymology (PE): Novin, from now, → new, + -in adj. suffix, as in dirin, pasin, barin, kehin, mehin, behin, zirin, zabarin, pâyin, bâlâyin.