modernize

verb

mod·​ern·​ize ˈmä-dər-ˌnīz How to pronounce modernize (audio)
modernized; modernizing

transitive verb

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

intransitive verb

: to adopt modern ways
modernizer noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The robots are part of a bigger innovation plan These robots are part of a larger effort to modernize how the U.K. manages its aging water infrastructure. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 7 July 2025 This partnership, the organizations said, is meant to modernize the league’s digital infrastructure, broadcast match analysis, organizational operations and the new fan-facing digital platforms, which leverage Microsoft’s cloud and AI technologies. Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 4 July 2025 There are many different types of nakiri knives out there, including some with traditional rounded wood wa-style handles, some made from high-end carbon steel, and some that take liberties with the blade shape in an effort to modernize the design. Jesse Raub, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 July 2025 Decades later, The Hunger Games modernized the concept for a young adult audience, highlighting class divisions and authoritarian spectacle. Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for modernize

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of modernize was in 1716

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Cite this Entry

“Modernize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modernize. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

modernize

verb
mod·​ern·​ize ˈmäd-ər-ˌnīz How to pronounce modernize (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on modernize

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