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

Inside the patchwork design, its detailed patterns with polka dots and geometric shapes modernize the look without straying too far from traditional barn quilts. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2025

The Seaquarium has an aquarium already, but a source familiar with Martin’s plans said the new aquarium would be modernized and larger in order to be an attraction for the site. —Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 26 Sep. 2025

Each of the 60 rooms is modernized, featuring art nouveau and art deco furnishings. —Anna Mazurek, AFAR Media, 26 Sep. 2025

Update Your Paint with Confidence If your home features several of these outdated colors, paint offers a great opportunity to dramatically modernize it with minimal effort and a relatively small investment. —Tessa Cooper, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Sep. 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