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

Accessibility The building has been fully modernized several times over since its 1912 debut, so there are fully accessible rooms, elevators, and public spaces throughout. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

The award also reflected broader industry attention around how transportation organizations can modernize without losing sight of human beings at the center of service delivery. —Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 2 June 2026

The traditional enterprise server business is booming as customers modernize infrastructure. —Jim Cramer, CNBC, 2 June 2026

Much of the brand’s growth, though, stems from Merrell’s work to modernize without sacrificing its credibility in the market. —Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 2 June 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