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

• contemporize
• streamline
• update

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

Real-world impact Fed up with the stonewalling, state and federal agencies have sued San Francisco in hopes of forcing the city to modernize its wastewater system. —Tom Philp, The Mercury News, 6 Nov. 2024

Even Burgess acknowledges how badly the state needed to modernize its voter registration system. —Anjeanette Damon, ProPublica, 2 Nov. 2024

Some arsenals are increasing, all are being modernized, and nuclear threats are being made more frequently. —Zia Mian, Scientific American, 28 Oct. 2024

San Francisco has secured a $130 million state grant to modernize Muni's train control system and bolster its efficiency, city officials announced Friday. —Shawna Chen, Axios, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

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