How to pronounce modernize
Say it like MOD-er-nyze. Modernize has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (MOD).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce modernize. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- MOD
- er
- nyze
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Modernize pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- MODSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ah" in father.
- erKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
- nyzeGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in time.
American vs British pronunciation of modernize
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
- The short o is rounded in British English (as in "hot"), but open and unrounded in American English.
British respelling: MOD-uh-nyze.
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- To make (something old or outdated) up to date, or modern in style or function by adding or changing equipment, designs, etc.
- To become modern in appearance, or adopt modern ways
Where does modernize come from?
From modern + -ize or French modernizer.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- bring
- rejuvenate
- renew
- overhaul
- modernise
Questions about saying modernize
How do you pronounce modernize?
Say MOD-er-nyze. The American pronunciation is /ˈmɑdɚˌnaɪz/. In British English it is /ˈmɒdənaɪz/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in modernize?
Modernize has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (MOD). Broken into parts: MOD · er · nyze.
Is modernize pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead. The British form is /ˈmɒdənaɪz/ (MOD-uh-nyze).