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

“They call it modernizing the program, but that’s political speak,” Piemonte said.

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Workers in towns destroyed the costly factory machines that had begun to modernize the economy.

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The company said it has already helped businesses use AI technology to modernize fraud-detection practices and optimize supply chains.

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The federal government’s goal is to modernize the form and make it easier to use, said Akash Bobba, the federal developer who spoke on the Oct.

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But the hope is through concerted, planned investment that Santa Monica can shine once again and modernize to be competitive in the postpandemic era.

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Related Words

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