Dictionary

transmute

verb trans·mute \tran(t)s-ˈmyüt, tranz-\

: to completely change the form, appearance, or nature of (someone or something)

trans·mutedtrans·mut·ing

Full Definition of TRANSMUTE

transitive verb
1
:  to change or alter in form, appearance, or nature and especially to a higher form
2
:  to subject (as an element) to transmutation
intransitive verb
:  to undergo transmutation
trans·mut·able \-ˈmyü-tə-bəl\ adjective
ADVERTISEMENT

Origin of TRANSMUTE

Middle English, from Latin transmutare, from trans- + mutare to change — more at mutable
First Known Use: 15th century

Synonym Discussion of TRANSMUTE

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>.

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: transnationalPrevious Word in the Dictionary: transmutationistAll Words Near: transmute
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears