transform

1 of 2

verb

trans·​form tran(t)s-ˈfȯrm How to pronounce transform (audio)
transformed; transforming; transforms
Synonyms of transformnext

transitive verb

1
a
: to change in composition or structure
b
: to change the outward form or appearance of
c
: to change in character or condition : convert
2
: to subject to mathematical transformation
3
: to cause (a cell) to undergo genetic transformation
transformable adjective

transform

2 of 2

noun

trans·​form ˈtran(t)s-ˌfȯrm How to pronounce transform (audio)
1
: a mathematical element obtained from another by transformation
2
3
: a linguistic structure (such as a sentence) produced by means of a transformation
"the duckling is fed by the farmer" is a transform of "the farmer feeds the duckling"
Choose the Right Synonym for transform

transform, metamorphose, transmute, convert, transmogrify, transfigure mean to change a thing into a different thing.

transform implies a major change in form, nature, or function.

transformed a small company into a corporate giant

metamorphose suggests an abrupt or startling change induced by or as if by magic or a supernatural power.

awkward girls metamorphosed into graceful ballerinas

transmute implies transforming into a higher element or thing.

attempted to transmute lead into gold

convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function.

converted the study into a nursery

transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis.

a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince

transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

joy transfigured her face

Examples of transform in a Sentence

Verb A little creativity can transform an ordinary meal into a special event. The old factory has been transformed into an art gallery.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
Ham’s lawsuit alleged the project represented a fundamental shift in the club’s identity — transforming a traditional golf-centric club into a country club focused on non-golf activities. Chase Jordan january 13, Charlotte Observer, 13 Jan. 2026 Addressing the long-standing opacity in supply chains, the consortium aims to set a new standard for transparency and traceability, underscoring blockchain’s essential role in transforming industry norms beyond mere brand names. Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 13 Jan. 2026 About $116 million in tax money has been invested in new development, including new apartment complexes as well as Sistrunk Marketplace, a former warehouse transformed into a food hall with craft kiosks, gathering and event spaces, classrooms, seating areas and a brewery. Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 13 Jan. 2026 The investigative series follows the true story of a Mennonite family that quietly transformed a rural Canadian town into the epicentre of a North American drug empire, and reveals how how members of a secretive religious community became entangled with cartel networks. Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 13 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for transform

Word History

Etymology

Verb

Middle English, from Middle French transformer, from Latin transformare, from trans- + formare to form, from forma form

First Known Use

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Noun

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of transform was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Transform.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transform. Accessed 17 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

transform

verb
trans·​form
tran(t)s-ˈfȯ(ə)rm
1
a
: to change completely in composition, structure, or character
b
: to change in outward appearance
2
: to substitute for or change (a mathematical expression) into another using a mathematical rule
transformative
-ˈfȯr-mət-iv
adjective

Medical Definition

transform

transitive verb
trans·​form tran(t)s-ˈfȯ(ə)rm How to pronounce transform (audio)
: to cause to change: as
a
: to change (a current) in potential (as from high voltage to low) or in type (as from alternating to direct)
b
: to cause (a cell) to undergo genetic transformation

More from Merriam-Webster on transform

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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