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metamorphose

verb

ˌme-tə-ˈmȯr-ˌfōz How to pronounce metamorphose (audio)
Definition of metamorphosenext
as in to transform
to change in form, appearance, or use a science fiction story in which radiation metamorphoses people into giant bugs

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of metamorphose are convert, transfigure, transform, transmogrify, and transmute. While all these words mean "to change a thing into a different thing," 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 can convert be used instead of metamorphose?

While the synonyms convert and metamorphose are close in meaning, convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function.

converted the study into a nursery

When might transfigure be a better fit than metamorphose?

While in some cases nearly identical to metamorphose, transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

joy transfigured her face

When is transform a more appropriate choice than metamorphose?

Although the words transform and metamorphose have much in common, transform implies a major change in form, nature, or function.

transformed a small company into a corporate giant

When is it sensible to use transmogrify instead of metamorphose?

The words transmogrify and metamorphose can be used in similar contexts, but transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis.

a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince

When would transmute be a good substitute for metamorphose?

The synonyms transmute and metamorphose 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 metamorphose Every evening, a light and digital art program metamorphoses the club, which drips in tapestries, plush gold and green tones, and monumental mosaics of mythological creatures. —Melinda Sheckells, HollywoodReporter, 16 May 2025 Contrary to the Constitution’s separation of powers — a structural bill of rights to defend liberty and forestall tyranny — the president has metamorphosed since the Spanish-American War of 1898 into an extraconstitutional king. —Bruce Fein, Baltimore Sun, 1 May 2025 From a single museum-hotel, an entire archipelago has metamorphosed into a comprehensive art destination. —Ryan Craggs, Travel + Leisure, 29 Apr. 2025 One such hotel is The Palace in Madrid, recently metamorphosed as a Luxury Collection Hotel after a two-year renovation. —Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for metamorphose
Recent Examples of Synonyms for metamorphose
  1. transform
  2. convert
Verb
  • Santostock Modern Gold Wall Sconces, Set of 2 With their gleaming hardware and cylindrical glass shades, these robust yet elegant sconces will transform your living space.
    — Esme Benjamin, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
  • By consolidating ticketing for buses, ferries, and vans, 12Go Asia reduces uncertainty and helps transform complex island-hopping itineraries into manageable travel experiences.
    — Maria Williams, USA Today, 11 Jan. 2026
Definition of transform
Verb
  • Uniqlo designs the beanie with a moisture-wicking nylon blend that converts the body’s moisture into heat while preventing it from escaping.
    — Alison Syrett Cleary, InStyle, 9 Jan. 2026
  • The 6-6 Oldacre converted 7 of 8 shots from the floor and 9 of 12 free throws.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 9 Jan. 2026
Definition of convert

Browse Nearby Words

metallic
metamorphose
metamorphosed
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Metamorphose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/metamorphose. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

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