The size of some one part, as the diameter of semi-diameter
   of the base of a shaft, taken as a unit of measure by which the
   proportions of the other parts of the composition are regulated.
   Generally, for columns, the semi-diameter is taken, and divided into a
   certain number of parts, called minutes (see Minute), though often the
   diameter is taken, and any dimension is said to be so many modules and
   minutes in height, breadth, or projection.