An optical modulator is a device that modulates or varies the amplitude of an optical signal in a controlled manner. It generates desired intensity and color in light by changing optical parameters like transmission, refractive index, or reflection according to an input signal. Common types of optical modulators include electroabsorption modulators, electro-optic modulators, acousto-optic modulators, and Mach-Zehnder interferometric modulators. Optical modulators are important for applications like optical communication systems.