Main Entry: meta·mor·pho·sis

Pronunciation: \ˌme-tə-ˈmȯr-fə-səs\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural meta·mor·pho·ses \-ˌsēz\

Etymology: Latin, from Greek metamorphōsis, from metamorphoun to transform, from meta- + morphē form

Date: 1533

1 a : change of physical form, structure, or substance especially by supernatural means b : a striking alteration in appearance, character, or circumstances
2 : a typically marked and more or less abrupt developmental change in the form or structure of an animal (as a butterfly or a frog) occurring subsequent to birth or hatching