trans|form´a|ble

trans|form «verb. trans FRM; noun. TRANS _FRM», verb, noun.

–v.t.

1. to change in form or appearance: »

The blizzard transformed the bushes into mounds of white.

2. to change in condition, nature, or character: »

The witch transformed men into pigs. To Samarcand…we owe the art of transforming linen into paper (Cardinal Newman).

3. to change (one form of energy) into another. A generator transforms mechanical energy into electricity.

4. to change (an electric current) into one of higher or lower voltage, from alternating to direct current, or from direct to alternating current.

5. Mathematics. to change (a figure, term, or the like) to another differing in form but having the same value or quantity.

–v.i.

to be transformed; change: »

A tadpole transforms into a frog.

–n.

1. Mathematics. an expression derived from another by changing a figure, term, etc., without changing its quantity or value.

2. Linguistics. a sentence derived from a kernel sentence by one or more transformations.

╂[< Latin trānsformāre < trāns- across + formāre to form < forma form]

–trans|form´a|ble, adjective.

Synonym Study transitive verb.1, 2 Transform, transmute, convert mean to change the form, nature, substance, or state of something. Transform suggests a thoroughgoing or fundamental change in the appearance, shape, or nature of a thing or person: »

Responsibility transformed him from a careless boy into a capable leader.

Transmute suggests a complete change in nature or substance, especially to a higher kind: »

He thus transmuted disapproval into admiration.

Convert suggests a change from one state or condition to another, especially for a new use or purpose: »

to convert boxes into furniture.