modernize

verb

mod·​ern·​ize ˈmä-dər-ˌnīz 

modernized; modernizing

transitive verb

: to make modern (as in taste, style, or usage)

intransitive verb

: to adopt modern ways

modernizer noun

Synonyms

• redesign
• update
• streamline
• remake

Examples of modernize in a Sentence

We're modernizing our kitchen with a new oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher.

The country recently announced plans to begin modernizing its army.

The school needs a building with modernized classrooms.

Older companies will need to modernize quickly if they are to survive in today's economy.

Recent Examples on the Web

Throughout his 12-year tenure with the heritage American brand, Vevers has transformed the business by introducing ready-to-wear and modernizing its handbags for the next generation of fashion enthusiasts. —Emily Mercer, Footwear News, 6 Sep. 2025

Cubie Hernandez, the organization’s chief technology and learning officer, said the goal is to help families have confidence during the mortgage process while pushing the industry to modernize. —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 5 Sep. 2025

Leaders who modernize with hybrid architectures can reduce latency and accelerate reporting, improve compliance and enhance operational efficiency. —Chris "jay" Hawkinson, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025

The need to modernize the grid to meet ever-expanding demands of AI will dominate headlines and the economic, energy, and tech agendas across the country for the foreseeable future. —Leeza Garber, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for modernize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

modernize

verb

mod·​ern·​ize ˈmäd-ər-ˌnīz 

modernized; modernizing

: to make or become modern

especially : to change to suit present styles, tastes, or needs

modernization

ˌmäd-ər-nə-ˈzā-shən

noun

modernizer

ˈmäd-ər-ˌnī-zər

noun