modernize

verb

mod·​ern·​ize ˈmä-dər-ˌnīz 

modernized; modernizing

transitive verb

: to make modern (as in taste, style, or usage)

modernize a kitchen

intransitive verb

: to adopt modern ways

Older companies need to modernize to survive in the new economy.

modernizer noun

Synonyms of modernize

• redesign
• update
• streamline
• remake

Examples of modernize in a Sentence

We're modernizing our kitchen with a new oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher.

The country recently announced plans to begin modernizing its army.

The school needs a building with modernized classrooms.

Older companies will need to modernize quickly if they are to survive in today's economy.

Recent Examples on the Web

Lewis promised to help modernize the paper’s business. —Max Tani, semafor.com, 9 Feb. 2026

Today, Pet Parent is positioned as a turnkey option for communities and organizations seeking to modernize pet registration and engagement without overhauling existing structures. —Nia Bowers, USA Today, 8 Feb. 2026

The current plan to modernize air traffic control aims to spend more than $30 billion in taxpayer funding to upgrade aging facilities and equipment. —Marc Scribner, Oc Register, 8 Feb. 2026

Saw the approval of a historic $12 billion capital investment plan to modernize and expand airport facilities and infrastructure, delivering comprehensive upgrades to airfield, terminal, and roadway systems to support future growth and create a world-class travel experience. —Mark Curriden, Dallas Morning News, 6 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for modernize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

modernize

verb

mod·​ern·​ize ˈmäd-ər-ˌnīz 

modernized; modernizing

: to make or become modern

especially : to change to suit present styles, tastes, or needs

modernization

ˌmäd-ər-nə-ˈzā-shən

noun

modernizer

ˈmäd-ər-ˌnī-zər

noun