Synonyms of metamorphose

metamorphose

verb

ˌme-tə-ˈmȯr-ˌfōz 

as in to transform

to change in form, appearance, or use

a science fiction story in which radiation metamorphoses people into giant bugs

Synonyms & Similar Words

• transform
• convert
• transmute
• transfigure
• remodel
• rework
• transpose
• transubstantiate
• replace
• alter
• alchemize
• adjust
• modify
• recast
• redesign
• mutate
• revise
• make over
• redefine
• deform
• refashion
• reengineer
• disfigure
• supplant
• distort
• transmogrify
• regenerate
• redo
• remake
• vary
• revamp
• substitute
• displace

Synonym Chooser

How is the word metamorphose different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of metamorphose are convert, transfigure, transform, transmogrify, and transmute. While all these words mean "to change a thing into a different thing," metamorphose suggests an abrupt or startling change induced by or as if by magic or a supernatural power.

awkward girls metamorphosed into graceful ballerinas

When can convert be used instead of metamorphose?

While the synonyms convert and metamorphose are close in meaning, convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function.

converted the study into a nursery

When might transfigure be a better fit than metamorphose?

While in some cases nearly identical to metamorphose, transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

joy transfigured her face

When is transform a more appropriate choice than metamorphose?

Although the words transform and metamorphose have much in common, transform implies a major change in form, nature, or function.

transformed a small company into a corporate giant

When is it sensible to use transmogrify instead of metamorphose?

The words transmogrify and metamorphose can be used in similar contexts, but transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis.

a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince

When would transmute be a good substitute for metamorphose?

The synonyms transmute and metamorphose are sometimes interchangeable, but transmute implies transforming into a higher element or thing.

attempted to transmute lead into gold

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of metamorphose

In Wildcat Dome, objects speak, memories take on physical form, and metamorphoses abound. —Robert Rubsam, The Atlantic, 24 Mar. 2025

Male Darwin’s frogs actually carry tadpoles inside their vocal sacs as a protective act while the larvae metamorphose into froglets. —Ashley Strickland, CNN, 8 Feb. 2025

If the robot, who frequently metamorphoses, gives shape to some form of justice, it’s flayed down to a name. —Elisa Gonzalez, The New Yorker, 3 Feb. 2025

Others believed that birds hibernated underwater or, in certain cases, metamorphosed into other birds. —Scott Travers, Forbes, 21 Dec. 2024