plural metamorphoses
-fəˌsiːz 
1
: a major change in the appearance or character of someone or something
We have watched her metamorphosis from a shy schoolgirl into a self-confident businesswoman.
a company that has gone through a series of metamorphoses
The government has undergone political metamorphosis since his election.
2
biology
: a major change in the form or structure of some animals or insects that happens as the animal or insect becomes an adult
the metamorphosis of tadpoles into frogs
The class learned about how caterpillars undergo metamorphosis to become butterflies.
caterpillars undergoing metamorphoses
Cite this Entry
“Metamorphosis.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/metamorphosis. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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