Synonyms of transfigure

transfigure

verb

tran(t)s-ˈfi-gyər 

as in to transform

to change in form, appearance, or use

married life has seemingly transfigured his formerly aimless existence

Synonyms & Similar Words

• transform
• convert
• transmute
• metamorphose
• remodel
• rework
• replace
• transubstantiate
• transpose
• alchemize
• alter
• modify
• adjust
• recast
• redefine
• redesign
• revise
• make over
• reengineer
• mutate
• refashion
• disfigure
• deform
• distort
• supplant
• redo
• regenerate
• transmogrify
• remake
• revamp
• vary
• substitute
• displace

Synonym Chooser

How is the word transfigure different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of transfigure are convert, metamorphose, transform, transmogrify, and transmute. While all these words mean "to change a thing into a different thing," transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

joy transfigured her face

When might convert be a better fit than transfigure?

The meanings of convert and transfigure largely overlap; however, convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function.

converted the study into a nursery

When could metamorphose be used to replace transfigure?

The words metamorphose and transfigure can be used in similar contexts, but metamorphose suggests an abrupt or startling change induced by or as if by magic or a supernatural power.

awkward girls metamorphosed into graceful ballerinas

When is it sensible to use transform instead of transfigure?

The synonyms transform and transfigure are sometimes interchangeable, but transform implies a major change in form, nature, or function.

transformed a small company into a corporate giant

In what contexts can transmogrify take the place of transfigure?

The words transmogrify and transfigure are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis.

a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince

Where would transmute be a reasonable alternative to transfigure?

While the synonyms transmute and transfigure are close in meaning, transmute implies transforming into a higher element or thing.

attempted to transmute lead into gold

Examples Sentences

Recent Examples of transfigure

The claim seems more aspirational than accurate, maybe even defensive—the altar boy claiming his right to the transfiguring blaze. —Harper's Magazine, 25 June 2024

With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me. —Armstrong Williams, Baltimore Sun, 19 June 2024

That's just one of the ways the artist uses unexpected hues and textures to transfigure everyday subjects. —Mark Jenkins, Washington Post, 29 Mar. 2024

The world on the monitor was transfigured from a blank expanse to a colorful and variegated landscape teeming with detail. —Luke Mogelson, The New Yorker, 8 Apr. 2024