What does revolutionize mean?
Revolutionize means to transform something completely by introducing a fundamentally new approach, system, or way of working. The word is especially common in discussions of technology, science, education, industry, and social institutions, where it describes changes that alter established practices on a large scale. For example, digital payments have revolutionized banking, while a new scientific discovery may revolutionize medicine. It is more emphatic than verbs such as "modify" or "improve," because it suggests a profound break with previous methods rather than a minor adjustment. In everyday use, the word can sound enthusiastic or promotional, so writers may choose it carefully when describing technological or institutional change. Its metaphorical sense extends from literal political upheaval to any rapid or far-reaching transformation.
verbTo change something fundamentally by introducing a new system, method, or way of thinking. It often implies a rapid and far-reaching transformation.
- To change something fundamentally by introducing a new system, method, or way of thinking, especially in a public, institutional, or technological context.
"New technology could revolutionize the way cities manage traffic."
"The invention of the printing press revolutionized the spread of knowledge."
"Her research has revolutionized the way doctors diagnose certain diseases."
To revolutionize something is not merely to improve it, but to replace the old way of doing things with something fundamentally new.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does revolutionize come from?
The verb was formed in the late eighteenth century from "revolution," using the suffix "-ize." "Revolution" itself comes through French from Latin, where it derives from revolvere, meaning "to turn back" or "to roll back," related to revolvere, "to turn, revolve." The modern sense of political upheaval developed from the idea of a complete change or reversal in the existing order.
Related word forms
How revolutionize is actually used
The word is relatively formal and commonly used for major changes in technology, institutions, industries, or social practices. It is stronger than "change" and often suggests transformation on a broad or historic scale.