modernize

especially British, mod·ern·ise

[mod-er-nahyz]

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

verb (used without object)

modernized, modernizing 

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

modernize

/ ˈmɒdəˌnaɪz /

verb

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

   to modernize a room

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

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of modernize¹

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

Example Sentences

Beale’s attempt to modernize Lloyd’s culture and technology provoked a “complete backlash right from the beginning,” including a stream of hostile emails and letters, she said.

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Driscoll has earned praise from both sides of the aisle on Capitol Hill for his aggressive push to modernize the Army and overhaul the service’s unwieldy procurement program, lawmakers and Senate aides said.

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The process has served him well for years, and he sees no reason to modernize.

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It printed and distributed catalog cards, modernizing how local libraries operated.

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Fifth, the U.S. must modernize how it shares threat intelligence.

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Related Words

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