reform
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1re·form

verb \ri-ˈfrm\

Definition of REFORM

transitive verb
1
a : to put or change into an improved form or condition
b : to amend or improve by change of form or removal of faults or abuses
2
: to put an end to (an evil) by enforcing or introducing a better method or course of action
3
: to induce or cause to abandon evil ways <reform a drunkard>
4
a : to subject (hydrocarbons) to cracking
b : to produce (as gasoline or gas) by cracking
intransitive verb
: to become changed for the better
re·form·abil·i·ty \-ˌfr-mə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun
re·form·able \-ˈfr-mə-bəl\ adjective

Examples of REFORM

  1. The program is designed to reform prisoners.
  2. They want to reform campaign spending.
  3. The laws need to be reformed.
  4. The program is designed to help former gang members who are trying to reform.

Origin of REFORM

Middle English, from Anglo-French refurmer, from Latin reformare, from re- + formare to form, from forma form
First Known Use: 14th century

2reform

noun

Definition of REFORM

1
: amendment of what is defective, vicious, corrupt, or depraved
2
: a removal or correction of an abuse, a wrong, or errors
3
capitalized : reform judaism

Examples of REFORM

  1. A group of senators are calling for reform of the nation's health-care system.
  2. He has proposed a list of political reforms.

First Known Use of REFORM

1663

3reform

adjective

Definition of REFORM

: relating to or favoring reform

First Known Use of REFORM

1819

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