modern up
B2 informal separable transitive
In simple words
Change something old so it looks or works like something new and modern.
Literal meaning: To move upward into modernity — 'up' here functions as an intensifier suggesting completion or improvement.
Meanings
1 B2 informal
To renovate or redesign a physical space or object to give it a more contemporary look.
"They spent the summer moderni— modding up the old farmhouse with new fixtures and open-plan rooms."
Grammar: separable
2 B2 informal
To update practices, methods, or systems to match current standards or expectations.
"The school decided to modern up its teaching methods by introducing more digital tools."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Relatively rare and informal; more common in British English. Often used in contexts of renovation, fashion, or business practices. Not widely established in dictionaries; may be treated as non-standard by some speakers.
Commonly used with
office kitchen wardrobe curriculum image brand
Forms
Base
modern up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
moderns up
he/she/it
Past simple
moderned up
yesterday
Past participle
moderned up
have + pp
-ing form
moderning up
continuous
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