reformation

noun

ref·​or·​ma·​tion ˌre-fər-ˈmā-shən 

1

: the act of reforming : the state of being reformed

2

Reformation : a 16th century religious movement marked ultimately by rejection or modification of some Roman Catholic doctrine and practice and establishment of the Protestant churches

reformational

ˌre-fər-ˈmā-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Examples of reformation in a Sentence

the reformation of our justice system

Recent Examples on the Web

Reformation founder Yael Aflalo is back in the startup world. —Amy Francombe, Vogue, 16 Mar. 2026

Reformation has gained popularity recently with its partnership with Dallas influencer Nara Smith on the Ref x Nara Smith collaboration. —Fousia Abdullahi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Mar. 2026

Reformation is reaffirming its commitment to clean chemistry. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 5 Mar. 2026

Reformation of immigration laws is something both Coghill and Schneider want. —Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 23 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reformation

• self-reformation

Rhymes for reformation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

reformation

noun

ref·​or·​ma·​tion ˌref-ər-ˈmā-shən 

1

: the act of reforming : the state of being reformed

2

capitalized : a 16th century series of religious actions which led to establishment of the Protestant churches

reformational

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective

Legal Definition

reformation

noun

ref·​or·​ma·​tion ˌre-fər-ˈmā-shən 

: the act or an instance of reforming

specifically : the equitable remedy of reforming a writing (as a deed or contract) and enforcing it as reformed

Note: Reformation is allowed primarily to correct mistakes such as typographical errors or incorrectly chosen words. Occasionally reformation is permitted in cases of fraud or misrepresentation. Clear and convincing evidence of the mistake and of the intended agreement is usually required; sometimes parol evidence is sufficient to establish the agreement. This remedy is not applicable to wills.