transform

1 of 2

verb

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

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 killed by the farmer" is a transform of "the farmer kills 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
Verb
According to Sonnenfeld, the incident occurred during the scene in which Smith and Jones are in a transforming car that travels at hyper speeds and flips over. Zack Sharf, Variety, 2 Oct. 2024 Volumetric video, which captures performances in 3D, is being transformed by AI to expand its applications and lower production costs. C.m. Rubin, Forbes, 2 Oct. 2024 As the men’s president was transforming today’s man and Adams-Geller stylistically decoded time travel, Geller Brown was swathed in actual code and data working on Paige’s e-commerce overhaul — for a year and a half. Adriana Lee, WWD, 2 Oct. 2024 From stylish decor pieces to practical essentials, these top picks will transform your living space. Claire Rutter, Rolling Stone, 2 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for transform 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'transform.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near transform

Cite this Entry

“Transform.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transform. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

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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