Definitions

modern

[mod-ern] / ˈmɒd ərn /

ADJECTIVE

new, up-to-date

Synonyms

STRONGEST

contemporary current modernized present-day state-of-the-art stylish

STRONG

avant-garde concomitant latest novel now present recent today

WEAK

coincident concurrent contempo cutting edge fresh futuristic last word late latter-day leading-edge modernistic modish neoteric new-fashioned newfangled prevailing prevalent twenty-first century up-to-the-minute with it

Antonyms

STRONGEST

old old-fashioned past

WEAK

ancient antiquated obsolete outdated passé

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Although modern AI systems can produce impressive language and reasoning capabilities, their underlying mechanisms differ from the attention processes found in biological brains.

From Science Daily • Jun. 10, 2026

When they struggle, fathers can fixate on testosterone because that’s what modern culture tells them will make them feel better.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

Uniquely among coaches, two of his children, Lauren and Reece James, play football for their country - the first brother and sister to be senior England internationals in the modern era.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

“Fifty Shades of Grey” actress Dakota Johnson’s “extraordinary” midcentury modern Los Angeles retreat is already under offer—mere days after the on-screen star put the property on the market for $6 million.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

“They’re modern and adapting and moving forward. It’s not about superficial appearances or stereotypes, and it’s not about living in the past —it’s about honoring that past by building a future. . . .”

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Vocabulary lists containing modern

"Ad Power," "Without Commercials," and "What's Wrong with Advertising"

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Words to Describe a Place

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

President Obama's second inaugural address

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!