transform

verb

tran(t)s-ˈfȯrm How to pronounce transform (audio)
Definition of transformnext
as in to convert
to change in form, appearance, or use by clicking a few buttons, this toy car can be transformed into a robot

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Some common synonyms of transform are convert, metamorphose, transfigure, transmogrify, and transmute. While all these words 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

When would convert be a good substitute for transform?

The words convert and transform are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function.

converted the study into a nursery

When is metamorphose a more appropriate choice than transform?

While the synonyms metamorphose and transform are close in meaning, 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 is it sensible to use transfigure instead of transform?

The words transfigure and transform can be used in similar contexts, but transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

joy transfigured her face

When might transmogrify be a better fit than transform?

In some situations, the words transmogrify and transform are roughly equivalent. However, transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis.

a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince

When can transmute be used instead of transform?

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

attempted to transmute lead into gold

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of transform This creative decision transforms the family dynamic into the series’ emotional core. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 5 June 2025 In the summertime, after the rains, the river swells and the dry landscape transforms green, delighting hungry elephants. —Mary Holland, Robb Report, 5 June 2025 The Black church if properly resourced and unified could transform our communities. —Willie Wilson, Chicago Tribune, 5 June 2025 Apartments would transform into humid hothouses, the perfect habitat for mosquitoes, water snakes, fungus, and rushes. —Sarah Durn, Popular Science, 5 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for transform
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transform
  1. convert
  2. remodel
  3. transfigure
  4. transmute
Verb
  • Entering the final year of his three-year contract with the New Jersey Devils, Haula’s full no-trade protection will convert to a six-team no-trade clause on July 1.
    — Harman Dayal, New York Times, 30 May 2025
  • Months after the expose ran in late 2023, Brand also converted to Christianity and has been outspoken about his new faith.
    — Alex Ritman, Variety, 30 May 2025
Definition of convert
Verb
  • During the hiatus, the station was repainted and fitted with new lighting, and its restrooms were fully remodeled with new stalls and water fountains.
    — Vivienne Serret, Miami Herald, 28 May 2025
  • In 2021, the company remodeled its flagship Boise store at the corner of 15th and State streets, which was built by Safeway in 1950 with a Marina-style rounded roof.
    — Angela Palermo, Idaho Statesman, 17 May 2025
Definition of remodel
Verb
  • In each instance, the duties of the office transfigured the man into a sign and symbol of hope in the face of death.
    — The Editors, National Review, 21 Apr. 2025
  • The result was, if not a religious experience, then a spiritually transfiguring one.
    — Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2025
Definition of transfigure
Verb
  • Delving deep into sublime absurdity, Elster transmuted Bowie into a broad range of peculiar characters.
    — Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025
  • An election that would otherwise have punished the Liberals for Trudeau’s bad economic management was transmuted into a referendum on Canada’s continued national existence.
    — David Frum, The Atlantic, 29 Apr. 2025
Definition of transmute

Browse Nearby Words

transfixing
transform
transformation
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Transform.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transform. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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