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

Seyfried has been reaching for her Reformation sweater a lot lately. —Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026

Reformation has emerged as something of a cult brand, and there seem to be an increasing number of brands targeting a similar customer base. —Ayesha Javed, Time, 11 Jan. 2026

In fact, the parts tracking the rise, demise, and reformation of the influential alternate-rock band are the least interesting aspect of Pavements, because Perry (per the demands of the film’s structure) plays them straight. —Alison Willmore, Vulture, 1 Dec. 2025

Reformation’s Black Friday sale has commenced, which means 25% off the entire site. —Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 29 Nov. 2025

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.