Modernify

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. Bringing something up to date so that it suits current tastes, technology, or practices
2. Updating an old system, building, or idea so that it fits contemporary standards and needs
3. Giving a dated object, place, or concept a fresher, more current character or appearance

Etymology: "Modernify" is a plain English formation: the adjective "modern" with the verb-forming suffix "-ify," which comes from Latin "-ificare" via Old French "-ifier," and which English has long used to turn adjectives and nouns into verbs meaning "to make into" something. "Modern" itself came into English from French "moderne," which was built on Late Latin "modernus," meaning "of the present time," formed from "modo," "just now." So the word's core idea is literally "to make just-now," or to give something the qualities of the present. Because it is a transparent compound of an existing adjective and a productive suffix, the word has no hidden detour through another language. Its meaning follows its parts closely: to update or bring something into line with current styles, tools, or thinking. The form is typical of many newer verbs in English built this way, such as "beautify" or "simplify," which show the same pattern of adjective plus "-ify."

Synonyms: modernize, update, renovate, upgrade, refresh

Antonyms: antiquate