modernize

verb

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

transitive verb

: to make modern (as in taste, style, or usage)

intransitive verb

: to adopt modern ways
modernizer noun

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 Saudi Arabia said firms including Amazon Web Services will invest over $10 billion in building data centers in the country as the desert kingdom tries to modernize and diversify its oil-dependent economy. Matthew Martin, Fortune, 4 Mar. 2024 Though the form is used by millions of students and parents annually, the Education Department’s computer systems for it haven’t been fully modernized in decades. Zachary Schermele, USA TODAY, 2 Mar. 2024 But Kerala’s move to modernize doesn’t extend to every aspect of life. Jane Alexander, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Feb. 2024 There are a fair few ways to modernize your desk setup with new monitors or stands to make your desk the best spot in your house to work. Kyle Barr / Gizmodo, Quartz, 27 Feb. 2024 While the 19th-century structure maintains the frame of a barn stuck in time, the space is modernized with decor, artwork, leather chairs, and other upscale details. Amanda Hancock, The Courier-Journal, 19 Feb. 2024 Renovating or replacing the popular giant slide, and modernizing playground equipment throughout the park, are future priorities, Olson said. Keith Matheny, Detroit Free Press, 17 Feb. 2024 Constructed in 1960, the single-story house has since been thoroughly modernized and privatized, shielded from public view by gates and tall hedges. James McClain, Robb Report, 22 Feb. 2024 Additionally, collaborating with outlets such as EE T&D Magazine and POWER Magazine can help highlight CleanTech's role in modernizing the grid and integrating transmission technologies. Dan Mahoney, Forbes, 14 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'modernize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1716, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of modernize was in 1716

Dictionary Entries Near modernize

Cite this Entry

“Modernize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modernize. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on modernize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!