# modernizing

/ˈmɑdɝˌnaɪzɪŋ/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/modernizing
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

making something newer, more up-to-date, or more efficient. You use this when you want to improve an old system or building so it works better today.

For teachers: the present participle of 'modernize'; refers to the process of updating or improving something to meet current standards or needs. Often describes the renovation of infrastructure or the adoption of contemporary technology.

## Examples

- The city is modernizing its public transport system.
- The government is modernizing the national healthcare database to make it easier for doctors to share patient records.
- By modernizing the factory's automation systems, the company managed to reduce its carbon footprint while simultaneously increasing its annual production capacity by thirty percent.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.