modernize

American  

[mod-er-nahyz] / ˈmɒd ərˌnaɪz /

especially British, modernise

verb (used with object)

modernized, modernizing

1. to make modern; give a new or modern character or appearance to: to modernize a kitchen.

   to modernize one's ideas;

   to modernize a kitchen.

   Synonyms:

   update, refurbish, renovate

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verb (used without object)

modernized, modernizing

1. to become modern; adopt modern ways, views, etc.

modernize British  

/ ˈmɒdəˌnaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to make modern in appearance or style

   to modernize a room

2. (intr) to adopt modern ways, ideas, etc

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Other Word Forms

• modernization noun
• modernizer noun
• overmodernize verb
• remodernize verb
• unmodernized adjective

Etymology

Origin of modernize

First recorded in 1740–50; modern(ism) + -ize

Example Sentences

“Our ongoing strategic development program, which includes investments to modernize our critical infrastructure, will ensure our business continues to remain competitive in this global landscape,” Chan said.

From The Wall Street Journal

And you can’t just hit a magical AI button where everything gets modernized and rewritten.

From Barron's

China has also modernized its nuclear arsenal far faster.

From The Wall Street Journal

Leonardo’s sustained growth comes as European defense manufacturers experience increased demand from governments in the region seeking to modernize and expand their armed forces while providing military support to Ukraine.

From The Wall Street Journal

Anthropic said modernizing this code—a task that has traditionally fallen in IBM’s wheelhouse—could be done “in quarters instead of years,” potentially disrupting a major revenue stream for IBM.

From Barron's

Related Words

• improve
• rejuvenate
• remake
• renovate
• restore
• revamp
• revive
• update