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 has been let loose in the wilds of Wall Street — and chief executive officer Hali Borenstein said the brand is more than ready. — Evan Clark, Footwear News, 30 July 2026

Reformation joined forces with Umbro for a capsule of chic spectator separates. — Joe Bobowicz, Vogue, 16 July 2026

For her big return to Wimbledon, following a two-year absence, Pippa wore a white dress with a red floral print by Reformation—perfect for the warm season. — Giorgia Olivieri, Vanity Fair, 7 July 2026

Reformation has since expanded to over 50 stores around the world. — Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 6 July 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.