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

Supporters argue the changes will modernize an infamously slow court system and enhance accountability. —ABC News, 22 Mar. 2026

The higher fees come as the board looks to modernize LAX ahead of several high-profile events including the World Cup this summer, the 2027 Super Bowl and 2028 Olympics. —Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 21 Mar. 2026

The company is spending about $200 billion on its domestic expansion, which includes constructing two chip-making factories at its headquarters campus in Southeast Boise, building up to four fabs in New York state, and modernizing its existing fab in Virginia. —Angela Palermo, Idaho Statesman, 21 Mar. 2026

Unless lawmakers modernize how roads are funded, the electric vehicle boom could worsen an already fragile system. —Louis Sigaud, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 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