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Definition of modernization

modernization

/ˌmɑː.dɚ.nəˈzeɪ.ʃən/
(UK: modernisation)
mod · ern · i · za · tion
Adverb:modernly
•
Plural:modernizations
•
Adjective:modern
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modernization Lexical Profile

modernization Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The process of adapting something to modern needs, habits, or technologies, typically by installing new equipment or adopting contemporary methods.

Example

"The city council approved a major budget for the modernization of the public transit system."

2

In sociology and economics, the transformation from a traditional, rural, agrarian society to a secular, urban, industrial society.

Example

"Historians often study how rapid modernization altered traditional family structures in the nineteenth century."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for modernization

• Nearby Words

modernist
modernistic
modernity
modernization
modernize
modernizer
modernly

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 18th century from the verb 'modernize' (ultimately from Late Latin 'modernus', meaning 'just now') plus the noun-forming suffix '-ation'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Modernization. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/modernization
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