modernize

American

[mod-er-nahyz] / ˈmɒd ərˌnaɪz /

especially British, modernise

verb (used with object)

modernized, modernizing

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

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

modernize British

/ ˈmɒdəˌnaɪz /

verb

(tr) to make modern in appearance or style

to modernize a room
(intr) to adopt modern ways, ideas, etc

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

IBM suffered its worst day in 25 years, compounded by Anthropic’s announcement that its Claude AI could modernize COBOL, the programming language holding IBM’s mainframe empire together.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 19, 2026

The higher fees come as the board looks to modernize LAX ahead of a several high-profile events including the World Cup this summer, the 2027 Super Bowl and 2028 Olympics.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

“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 • Feb. 26, 2026

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 • Feb. 25, 2026

"I figured I shouldn't dress you traditionally. It's time to modernize Belles, in my humble opinion. Du Barry has been so ancient in her preparations," he says under his breath.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023