Definition of transformnext

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 Having this on your hotel's doorstep transforms the entire stay. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Apr. 2026 Those are given as weekly injections and, along with rival drugs Wegovy and Ozempic, have transformed weight-loss and diabetes treatment, with millions of people taking the medicines. Meg Tirrell, CNN Money, 1 Apr. 2026 The new special goes deep inside the boy band boom of the late 1990s and early aughts, revealing how the industry transformed young performers into marketable commodities while exposing untold stories of abuse, addiction, and financial manipulation. Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 1 Apr. 2026 German researchers have discovered a way to transform millions of old window panes into new high-performance glass, without the need for energy-intensive melting. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for transform
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transform
Verb
  • Toyota's decision to electrify the Highlander, but not the Grand Highlander, comes as environmental groups have criticized the world's largest automaker for being late to converting to producing fully electric vehicles.
    Keith Laing, USA Today, 28 Mar. 2026
  • DeBrincat opened the scoring by converting a rebound in front five seconds after Josh Norris was penalized for high sticking.
    CBS News, CBS News, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Completed in 2004 by builder James Nolan and architect Howard Backen, and extensively remodeled by Seacrest in collaboration with Clint Nicholas and Silvia Nobili of Nobili Marqués Arquitectura, the property offers a Tuscan-style main home, a pool house, and a guest cottage.
    Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 27 Mar. 2026
  • Several luxury vehicles were parked outside, and the property appeared recently remodeled, the outlet reported.
    Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 21 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Bent on experiencing a radical depth of intimacy with God, Ann leads her disciples in extended, highly expressive sessions of musical worship: again and again, the Shakers close their eyes, hurl their arms heavenward, and transfigure their ecstasy into song.
    Justin Chang, New Yorker, 9 Jan. 2026
  • And as our correspondence has moved largely online – transfiguring into WhatsApp messages, video calls, or just an exchange of memes – our communication and language have changed accordingly.
    Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 30 Dec. 2025
Verb
  • That chapter taught us that even our pain can be transmuted into power.
    Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 30 Dec. 2025
  • With space sonics and hued visuals, families can take their kids on intergalactic adventures where memories are made, and cinematic stories transmute into life stories.
    Malik Peay, USA Today, 10 Dec. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Transform.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transform. Accessed 4 Apr. 2026.

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