modifier vs modify

modifier is a noun but modify is not a noun.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
modifier	Yes	No	No	No
modify	No	No	Yes	No

modifier (noun)	modify (noun)
a gene that modifies the effect produced by another gene
a content word that qualifies the meaning of a noun or verb
a person who changes something
a moderator who makes less extreme or uncompromising

modifier (verb)	modify (verb)
	make less severe or harsh or extreme
	add a modifier to a constituent
	cause to change; make different; cause a transformation