modernize

verb

ˈmä-dər-ˌnīz How to pronounce modernize (audio)
Definition of modernizenext
as in to redesign
to adapt to modern needs, taste, or usage a proposal to modernize the old school and bring it into the 21st century

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of modernize The British government has backed the plans, arguing that modernizing the docks could create skilled employment and help Falmouth compete for new maritime business. — David Nikel, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026 Lagerfeld and the expansion to fashion In 1965 the Fendi sisters brought on Lagerfeld as Fendi’s first artistic director in order to modernize the fur line. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026 Michael Palladino, a lecturer in fashion at City University of New York Kingsborough, argued that companies need to modernize outdated ideas about what professional dress should look like. — Preston Fore, Fortune, 7 Aug. 2026 In a statement, NIPSCO said the plan — spanning 2026 through 2030 — would have made improvements focused on modernizing and strengthening its natural gas system, including expanding gas service to underserved areas. — Christin Lazerus, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for modernize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for modernize
  1. redesign
  2. update
  3. streamline
  4. remake
Verb
  • Organizations must redesign the systems that shape decision-making.
    — Rodger Dean Duncan, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2026
  • The house was built back in 1968 but was renovated and redesigned in 2021.
    — Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Aug. 2026
Definition of redesign
Verb
  • During this match, commentary announced that Nigel McGuinness suffered an injury against Shibata, and AEW will update his status in the Continental Challenge Cup on Monday.
    — Rob Wolkenbrod, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2026
  • In the kitchen, Daytrip updated an original orange bench with new cushions, and paired it with a Charlotte Perriand table and chairs by Pierre Chapo.
    — Nicolas Milon, Architectural Digest, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of update
Verb
  • Both scandals spurred reforms by state lawmakers that nevertheless failed to streamline a complex disciplinary process and left gaps for troubled businesses to continue operating.
    — Gregory Royal Pratt, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Instead of preparing separate master plans for each site, a process that has delayed projects for years, the city would streamline planning standards across commercial areas.
    — Ryan Macasero, Mercury News, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of streamline
Verb
  • The deliberative, thoughtful process of remaking the nation’s capital in the early 20th century bears little resemblance to Trump’s insistence on remaking the capital in his image.
    — Jennifer Tucker, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Because until the state follows through and remakes all streets around the limits of the human body, fallible people will remain primarily responsible for road users’ safety.
    — Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 6 Aug. 2026
Definition of remake

Browse Nearby Words

modernity
modernize
modernized
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Cite this Entry

“Modernize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/modernize. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on modernize

Nglish: Translation of modernize for Spanish Speakers

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