modernize

[ mod-er-nahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, mod·ern·ized, mod·ern·iz·ing.

1. to make modern; give a new or modern character or appearance to: to modernize a kitchen.

   to modernize one's ideas;

   to modernize a kitchen.

   Synonyms: refurbish, renovate, update

verb (used without object)

, mod·ern·ized, mod·ern·iz·ing.

1. to become modern; adopt modern ways, views, etc.

modernize

/ ˈmɒdəˌnaɪz /

verb

1. tr to make modern in appearance or style

   to modernize a room

2. intr to adopt modern ways, ideas, etc

Derived Forms

• ˈmodernˌizer, noun
• ˌmoderniˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• mod·ern·i·za·tion [mod-er-nahy-, zey, -sh, uh, n], noun
• mod·ern·iz·er noun
• o·ver·mod·ern·ize verb overmodernized overmodernizing
• re·mod·ern·ize verb remodernized remodernizing
• un·mod·ern·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of modernize¹

First recorded in 1740–50; modern(ism) + -ize

Example Sentences

Lloyd modernizes the stagecraft, injecting avant-garde intrigue into what is ultimately a commercial enterprise.

From Los Angeles Times

The plan involves modernizing the island’s energy grid, lowering housing costs and promoting economic opportunity.

From Los Angeles Times

Berry supports the act “because it would help modernize the nation’s fragmented recycling infrastructure and significantly increase use of recycled material in new products,” CEO Kevin Kwilinski said in the statement.

From Salon

Voters are being asked to add $20 billion to the state’s debt to modernize school facilities, dampen wildfires and prevent all sorts of climate-related catastrophes.

From Los Angeles Times

Congress can also improve access by further modernizing the program.

From Salon

Related Words

• improve
• rejuvenate
• remake
• renovate
• restore
• revamp
• revive
• update