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

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

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

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.

Read more on Salon

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

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Analysts say the movement must modernize to survive.

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Earlier this year, Cracker Barrel moved to modernize its cooking techniques, internally referred to as “BOH Optimization,” a reference to “back of house.”

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Related Words

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