modernization

American  

[mod-er-nahy-zey-shuhn] / ˌmɒd ər naɪˈzeɪ ʃən /

especially British, modernisation

noun

1. the act or process of making or becoming up-to-date, or the state of being up-to-date or modern.

   Los Angeles is investing billions in the first major modernization at LAX since the 1984 Olympics.

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• antimodernization
  noun
• overmodernization
  noun
• remodernization
  noun

Etymology

Origin of modernization

moderniz(e) ( def. ) + -ation ( def. )

Explanation

Modernization is the process of updating something or making it work in a contemporary setting. The modernization of an office might include new computers, high-speed internet, and a fancy espresso machine. Kitchen modernization usually means new appliances and expensive countertops—the kitchen ends up looking more modern and working in a modern way as well. The modernization of a Shakespeare play, on the other hand, may involve contemporary settings and clothing, or even updating language of the dialogue. Modernization comes via modern, from the Late Latin modernus, "modern," and ultimately the root modo, "just now."

Example Sentences

Officials describe the update as a modernization effort intended to streamline outdated or redundant classifications and create a more efficient system for supporting service members’ religious needs.

From Salon • Jun. 6, 2026

While federal planning documents examined potential future repairs and modernization efforts that could have carried significant costs, those projects were never implemented.

From Salon • May 31, 2026

Kim said this year will mark an “unprecedented upgrade” in bolstering North Korea’s military capabilities as he accelerates the modernization of his conventional forces on land and at sea.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

Linh told The Times she will push for mandatory modernization of utility infrastructure to prevent power lines from sparking fires, invest in forest and vegetation management and modernize water infrastructure and early warning systems.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

It was then that he thought of the decisive step, not only for the modernization of his business but to link the town with the rest of the world.

From "One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel Garcia Marquez