transformation

noun

trans·for·ma·tion | \ ˌtran(t)s-fər-ˈmā-shən

, -fȯr-\

Definition of transformation

1 : an act, process, or instance of transforming or being transformed

2 : false hair worn especially by a woman to replace or supplement natural hair

3a(1) : the operation of changing (as by rotation or mapping) one configuration or expression into another in accordance with a mathematical rule especially : a change of variables or coordinates in which a function of new variables or coordinates is substituted for each original variable or coordinate

(2) : the formula that effects a transformation

b : function sense 5a

c : an operation that converts (as by insertion, deletion, or permutation) one grammatical string (such as a sentence) into another also : a formal statement of such an operation

4 : genetic modification of a bacterium by incorporation of free DNA from another bacterial cell also : genetic modification of a cell by the uptake and incorporation of exogenous DNA

Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More about transformation

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Examples of transformation in a Sentence

The building underwent various transformations over the years. a raven-haired starlet who underwent an attention-getting transformation and showed up at the awards ceremony as a blonde

Recent Examples on the Web

Talk about your snazzy transformation: it’s where the Monte Carlo’s old sports book used to be. — Michele Parente, San Diego Union-Tribune, "Everything you need to know about Las Vegas’ latest reinvention, from Eataly to Lady Gaga and the NoMad," 9 Sep. 2019 Below, check out her head-turning hair transformations. — Jennifer Ford, Essence, "Amber Rose Shows Off Her Growing Baby Bump and Beautiful Black Hair," 29 Aug. 2019 While details are still scarce, Harrelson’s Kasady is expected to make his transformation into Venom’s arch-nemesis, Carnage. — Richard Newby, The Hollywood Reporter, "Will Andy Serkis Take 'Venom 2' in a Darker Direction?," 8 Aug. 2019 In his dressing room, Chris Maddox makes a final check of his transformation into Elvis before taking the Starlight Bowl stage this past Saturday. — David Laurell, Burbank Leader, "On the Town: Elvis tribute artist brings the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll to life," 29 July 2019 One of the main plot lines is Pence’s transformation as well. — Maureen Groppe, USA TODAY, "Book describes Mike Pence's evolution into Trump's bootlicking `Bobblehead'," 26 July 2019 Ironically, the ultimate effect of this case-by-case problem solving may be the transformation of human reasoning and decision making. — The Atlantic, "The Metamorphosis," 11 July 2019 The country’s experience provides a fresh perspective on its digital transformation and demonstrates that technology can help modernise the financial system as well as also support greater financial inclusion. — Selin Ozyurt, Quartz Africa, "Ghana is now the fastest-growing mobile money market in Africa," 9 July 2019 Having only just debuted blonde bangs a couple weeks earlier, the red was a totally unexpected transformation for the 22-year-old star. — Lucy Wood, Marie Claire, "Zendaya's Copper Curls And Golden Goddess Dress Will Give You Life," 5 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'transformation.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.