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 test probably indicates Kim is intent on enlarging and modernizing an arsenal of missiles capable of reaching the United States mainland. —Hyung-Jin Kim, Los Angeles Times, 29 Mar. 2026

Yet, despite the massive scale, the Berliners insist their success lies in a refusal to modernize their methods. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 29 Mar. 2026

Kim’s latest military activities also included inspections of special operations training and tests of a new main battle tank, underscoring a broader push to modernize both North Korea’s missile program and conventional forces, according to KCNA. —Eric MacK, FOXNews.com, 29 Mar. 2026

Dominick hung up his chef's coat in New York and came home to modernize the recipe. —Edie Kasten, CBS News, 28 Mar. 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