transform

1 of 2

verb

trans·​form tran(t)s-ˈfȯrm 

transformed; transforming; transforms

transitive verb

1

a

: to change in composition or structure

b

: to change the outward form or appearance of

c

: to change in character or condition : convert

2

: to subject to mathematical transformation

3

: to cause (a cell) to undergo genetic transformation

intransitive verb

: to become transformed : change

transformable

tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mə-bəl 

adjective

transform

2 of 2

noun

trans·​form ˈtran(t)s-ˌfȯrm 

1

: a mathematical element obtained from another by transformation

2

: transformation sense 3a(1)

3

: a linguistic structure (such as a sentence) produced by means of a transformation

"the duckling is killed by the farmer" is a transform of "the farmer kills the duckling"

Synonyms

Verb

• alchemize
• convert
• make over
• metamorphose
• transfigure
• transmute
• transpose
• transubstantiate

Choose the Right Synonym for transform

transform, metamorphose, transmute, convert, transmogrify, transfigure mean to change a thing into a different thing.

transform implies a major change in form, nature, or function.

transformed a small company into a corporate giant

metamorphose suggests an abrupt or startling change induced by or as if by magic or a supernatural power.

awkward girls metamorphosed into graceful ballerinas

transmute implies transforming into a higher element or thing.

attempted to transmute lead into gold

convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function.

converted the study into a nursery

transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis.

a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince

transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

joy transfigured her face

Examples of transform in a Sentence

Verb

A little creativity can transform an ordinary meal into a special event.

The old factory has been transformed into an art gallery.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Taking its first victory lap in fall 2023, the Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix significantly transformed the Las Vegas Strip, metamorphosing a 3.8-mile stretch of one of the most famous boulevards in the world into a race track. —Melinda Sheckells, Forbes, 26 Oct. 2024

From digital skylights and smart seats to eye-tracking functionality and immersive soundscapes, the array of innovative amenities could transform even the longest flights into time well spent. —Daniel Cote, Robb Report, 26 Oct. 2024

My company’s approach goes beyond cancer care—we’re transforming the entire hospital-to-home transition. —Caroline Hodge, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2024

Everyone loves a royal wedding — and excitement is building around speculation that King Charles is pursuing permission to transform a building on the grounds of Balmoral Castle into a wedding venue. —Janine Henni, People.com, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Verb

Middle English, from Middle French transformer, from Latin transformare, from trans- + formare to form, from forma form

First Known Use

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Noun

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing transform

• Fourier transform
• Laplace transform
• transform fault

Kids Definition

transform

verb

trans·​form

tran(t)s-ˈfȯ(ə)rm

1

a

: to change completely in composition, structure, or character

b

: to change in outward appearance

2

: to substitute for or change (a mathematical expression) into another using a mathematical rule

transformative

-ˈfȯr-mət-iv

adjective

Medical Definition

transform

transitive verb

trans·​form tran(t)s-ˈfȯ(ə)rm 

: to cause to change: as

a

: to change (a current) in potential (as from high voltage to low) or in type (as from alternating to direct)

b

: to cause (a cell) to undergo genetic transformation

intransitive verb

: to become transformed