First Known Use: 1576
Dictionary
metamorphose
verb meta·mor·phose \-ˌfōz, -ˌfōs\
: to change in an important and obvious way into something that is very different : to undergo metamorphosis
meta·mor·phosedmeta·mor·phos·ing
Full Definition of METAMORPHOSE
transitive verb
1
a : to change into a different physical form especially by supernatural means b : to change strikingly the appearance or character of : transform
2
: to cause (rock) to undergo metamorphism
intransitive verb
1
: to undergo metamorphosis
2
: to become transformed
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Origin of METAMORPHOSE
probably from Middle French metamorphoser, from metamorphose metamorphosis, from Latin metamorphosis
Related to METAMORPHOSE
- Synonyms
- alchemize, make over, convert, transfigure, transform, transmute, transpose, transubstantiate
Synonym Discussion of METAMORPHOSE
transform, metamorphose, transmute, convert, transmogrify, transfigure 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>. metamorphose suggests an abrupt or startling change induced by or as if by magic or a supernatural power <awkward girls metamorphosed into graceful ballerinas>. transmute implies transforming into a higher element or thing <attempted to transmute lead into gold>. convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function <converted the study into a nursery>. transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis <a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince>. transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies <joy transfigured her face>.
Rhymes with METAMORPHOSE
Medical Dictionary
metamorphose
intransitive verb meta·mor·phose \-ˌfōz, -ˌfōs\
meta·mor·phosedmeta·mor·phos·ing
Medical Definition of METAMORPHOSE
: to undergo metamorphosis
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