modernize

verb

mod·​ern·​ize ˈmä-dər-ˌnīz 

modernized; modernizing

transitive verb

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

intransitive verb

: to adopt modern ways

modernizer noun

Synonyms

• 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

Similarly, both Japan and Europe have been modernizing their launch fleets, and the H3 and Ariane 6 rockets are only getting going now. —Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 11 Aug. 2025

Security programs must modernize at the breakneck pace at which code is now being delivered. —Pieter Danhieux, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2025

While some aspects of the property have been modernized, like Japanese toilets in the bathrooms, the Rinellas put an emphasis on restoring many original details of the house. —Elliott Harrell, Southern Living, 9 Aug. 2025

President Theodore Roosevelt modernized the White House in 1902, adding the West Wing, while previous first ladies refurbished the state rooms. —Ashley J. Dimella, FOXNews.com, 7 Aug. 2025

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