# modernize

> English word · Verb · IPA /ˈmɒdənaɪz/ · frequency rank #27,937

## Definitions
1. To make (something old or outdated) up to date, or modern in style or function by adding or changing equipment, designs, etc.
2. To become modern in appearance, or adopt modern ways

## Etymology
From modern + -ize or French moderniser.

## Easily confused with
- **modernity** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/modernity-vs-modernize)
- **modernist** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/modernist-vs-modernize)
- **modernism** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/modernism-vs-modernize)
- **modernised** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/modernised-vs-modernize)

## Common misspellings (13)
`mdoernize`, `mmodernize`, `moddernize`, `modenrize`, `moderinze`, `moderniez`, `modernizze`, `modernnize`, `modernzie`, `moderrnize`, `modrenize`, `moedrnize`, `omdernize`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/modernize