transform

verb

trans·​form tran(t)s-ˈfȯrm 

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

intransitive verb

: to become transformed : change

transformable

tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mə-bəl 

adjective

Synonyms of transform

• convert
• remodel
• transfigure
• transmute

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

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

It was transformed into an inn in 1984, and was purchased by Verdigreen Hotels in 2025. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 June 2026

The effect will be much more natural than after a color appointment, as these masks add a veil of color, rather than transforming it as dye does. —Giulia Lenzi, Vogue, 8 June 2026

Those data centers could transform open space and rural farmland into industrial zones, disrupting communities with long-standing ties to the land. —Ed Maibach, The Conversation, 8 June 2026

The store’s opening is part of a $10 million facelift that will transform the center’s look over the next 24 months, according to LJJ. —Roxana Popescu, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing transform

• Fourier transform
• Laplace transform
• transform fault

Rhymes for transform

• brainstorm
• conform
• deform
• firestorm
• hailstorm
• inform
• landform
• lukewarm
• perform
• planform
• platform
• preform

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 

: 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

intransitive verb

: to become transformed