reform

ree-FORM/ˌɹiːˈfɔɹm/UKree-FAWM/ˌɹiːˈfɔːm/

4 meanings of reform

1
nouncountable or uncountable
A change made to fix something that is broken or working badly.
Like fixing a leaky roof so the whole house works properly again.
The new law brought reform to the way schools are funded.
People marched in the streets to demand reform.
Similaroverhaul, improvement, reorganization, change, amendment
Note
2
verbtransitive
To change something bad or broken into something better.
Like repairing an old engine so it runs smoothly again.
The mayor wants to reform the city's housing rules.
They reformed the prison system after years of complaints.
Similarimprove, overhaul, revamp, reorganize, amend
Note
3
verbintransitive
To change your own bad behavior and start acting better.
Like leaving bad habits behind and starting fresh.
He promised to reform after leaving prison.
She reformed completely once she found steady work.
Similarchange, improve
Oppositerelapse, backslide
4
verbtransitive or intransitive
To come together again, or make something into a new shape.
Like building blocks knocked down and then stacked up in a new way.
After the break, the players reform their team in a new lineup.
Ice crystals reform once the temperature drops again.
Similarreshape, regroup, reassemble
Note

Practice

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Origin

This word came from Latin "reformare." It reached English through Old French "reformer" and Middle English "reformen." The noun has been used since the 1660s.