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

Explanation

To modernize is to adjust or improve something, especially in a way that uses new technology. You might modernize your grandmother's kitchen by buying her a microwave and an espresso machine. When you modernize something, you bring it up to date. You could modernize your office by buying new computers, for example, or modernize your antique car by installing seat belts and a stereo. At the heart of modernize is the adjective modern, "relating to the present time" or "up-to-date." In Shakepeare, the word modern is often used to mean "ordinary," although today there's more of a sense of "the very latest technology."

Example Sentences

Wall Street attempts to modernize how to sell an IPO have never stuck.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 23, 2026

"It highlights the need to revisit long-standing assumptions about mosasaur evolution and to modernize the tools we use to study these iconic marine reptiles."

From Science Daily • May 23, 2026

Feldstein Soto pushed back on those criticisms, touting steps she has taken to modernize the office and enhance public safety.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2026

Long term, the company could also expand its beverages and snacks menu, modernize the digital ordering system, and enhance personalized loyalty programs.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

In 1876, elected President of Bowdoin College, where he attempts to modernize the school, introducing courses in science, de-emphasizing religion, and becomes involved in student demonstrations over the question of ROTC.

From "The Killer Angels: The Classic Novel of the Civil War" by Michael Shaara

Related Words

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