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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Synonym Chooser

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 Its new owner’s restoration and expansion project began in 2020, maintaining the character and materials of the original building while transforming attic space into a primary suite and opening the original attic staircase to the main floor. —Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 18 Apr. 2025 Here are three innovative approaches that transform career development from a nice-to-have perk into a strategic business advantage that drives retention. —Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025 As the album playback ends, Wayne transforms into the master of ceremonies, holding court about whatever comes to mind. —Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 17 Apr. 2025 Guenther Steiner was one of the strong personalities on the Formula One track that helped transform Drive to Survive into a roaring success of a reality TV show for Netflix, before his dismissal from Team Haas after ten years at the helm. —Caroline Frost, Deadline, 6 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for transform
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transform
  1. convert
  2. remodel
  3. transfigure
  4. transmute
Verb
  • The largest cause of deforestation is a lack of demand for forest products, which causes our forest to be converted to industrial, agricultural, residential uses.
    — Rob Marciano, CBS News, 9 Apr. 2025
  • However, his time with the Patriots was brief—the team had drafted him with the intention of converting him to another position like defensive back or running back, position changes Gannon resisted.
    — Omaid Homayun, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
Definition of convert
Verb
  • According to local reports, it had been remodeled several times to update its dance floor, ambiance, lights and sound.
    — Griselda Flores, Billboard, 8 Apr. 2025
  • The proposal would remodel and add to a vacant 3,500-square-foot two-story house at 625 Wrelton Drive in Bird Rock, facing Tourmaline Beach.
    — Ashley Mackin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025
Definition of remodel
Verb
  • The result was, if not a religious experience, then a spiritually transfiguring one.
    — Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2025
  • Enter the Wizards, transfigured at the trade deadline but still among the league’s most eager-to-lose organizations.
    — Bennett Durando, The Denver Post, 15 Mar. 2025
Definition of transfigure
Verb
  • That gets transmuted into a rote kind of love story.
    — Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 8 Apr. 2025
  • As for July’s Superman, Carrigan plays Rex Mason/Metamorpho, who, per the comics, can transmute himself into chemical compounds of his choosing.
    — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 26 Mar. 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 24 Apr. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of transform for Spanish Speakers

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