What does "modernize" mean?

To make (something old or outdated) up to date, or modern in style or function by adding or changing equipment, designs, etc.

What is a synonym for "modernize"?

Common synonyms include: bring, develop, improve, make up to date, modernise, overhaul.

//ˈmɒdənaɪz// verb

verb ·Uncommon ·Advanced level

Verb

1
To make (something old or outdated) up to date, or modern in style or function by adding or changing equipment, designs, etc. transitive
2
make repairs, renovations, revisions or adjustments to wordnet
3
To become modern in appearance, or adopt modern ways intransitive
4
become technologically advanced wordnet

"China is working to modernize its weapons program."

From modern + -ize or French moderniser.

Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.