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

The referendum calls for the city to issue $450 million in bonds to allow the City of Miami to repair, modernize and replace aging police and fire-rescue facilities. — Ana Claudia Chacin, Miami Herald, 4 Nov. 2026

Stevenson, 43, an officer in the California State Guard, emphasized bringing more jobs and revenue to Rancho Cordova, improving public safety and modernizing local schools. — Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 4 Nov. 2026

Firms in some jurisdictions can access capital to modernize and expand, while competitors elsewhere are denied the same opportunity. — Will Hausberg, Fortune, 4 Nov. 2026

Georgia's Amendment 3 passed Tuesday, according to projections, deciding whether state lawmakers can create a dedicated fund to help modernize and operate 911 systems across the state. — Sergio Candido, CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for modernize

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

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