modernize

verb

mod·​ern·​ize ˈmä-dər-ˌnīz How to pronounce modernize (audio)
modernized; modernizing
Synonyms of modernizenext

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

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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
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.
Making Shakespeare’s plays accessible is a noble goal, but there are other ways to go about this beyond modernizing the text and diluting its lyrical beauty and nuance. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 5 Sep. 2026 Kiffin modernized Alabama, then was accused of faking injuries to slow down Tennessee. — Matt Baker, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026 And Mersan & Tümkalıp, another machinery purveyor, is reputedly negotiating assistance deals to retroactively modernize damaged production lines that idled during the war years. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 4 Sep. 2026 The company says the investment in the new meters is essential to a larger plan to modernize the power grid. — Alex Kuffner, The Providence Journal, 3 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for modernize

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of modernize was in 1716

Rhymes for modernize

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Browse Nearby Words

modernization
modernize
modern languages
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Cite this Entry

“Modernize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modernize. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

modernize

verb
mod·​ern·​ize ˈmäd-ər-ˌnīz How to pronounce modernize (audio)
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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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