Metamorphosis
/ˌmɛtəˈmɔːrfəsɪs/
Definitions
A marked change in form, character, or function; a transformation.
/ˌmɛtəˈmɔːrfəsɪs/
A profound or complete change of form or nature.
The city underwent an urban metamorphosis with new buildings and infrastructure.
💡 Simply: Imagine a caterpillar turning into a beautiful butterfly. That amazing change is a metamorphosis! It's like when you change your style completely, or maybe your feelings about something change a lot.
👶 For kids: When something changes a lot, like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly, that's metamorphosis!
More Examples
The novel depicted the protagonist's spiritual metamorphosis throughout the journey.
The company experienced a significant metamorphosis after the new CEO took over.
How It's Used
"The caterpillar undergoes a complete metamorphosis, transforming into a butterfly."
"Kafka's *The Metamorphosis* portrays a man's transformation into an insect, a symbol of alienation."
"Her journey of self-discovery was a slow metamorphosis, as she shed old habits and embraced new perspectives."
Idioms & expressions
undergo a metamorphosis
To experience a significant change or transformation.
"The company underwent a complete metamorphosis after the new CEO implemented the restructuring plan."
From Greek *metamorphōsis* meaning 'transformation, a changing of shape'. Derived from *meta-* (change) and *morphē* (form).
The word has been used since the 16th century, initially referring to changes in form, especially in Greek mythology and natural sciences.
Memory tip
Think of the transformation of a caterpillar to a butterfly.