makeover

[ meyk-oh-ver ]

noun

1. a remodeling; renovation; restoration:

   The old house needs a complete makeover.

2. a thorough course of beauty and cosmetic treatments:

   Assistants spent four hours on the actress's makeover in preparation for the awards ceremony.

3. a change made in one’s life or lifestyle:

   Does your career or marriage need a makeover?

Word History and Origins

Origin of makeover¹

First recorded in 1925–30; noun use of verb phrase make over

Example Sentences

Ben Sasse, the Nebraska senator, arrived in Florida in February 2023 to help cement a conservative makeover of one of the nation’s top five public universities.

From New York Times

Three shows well known to theater audiences have undergone radical Broadway makeovers this fall at the hands of directors who recognize that plays and musicals must be in dialogue with their times.

From Los Angeles Times

Both have taken on industrial land makeovers in the past.

From Los Angeles Times

The public transit system has had a serious makeover and is getting even more upgrades to cover more areas in the future.

From Los Angeles Times

Perhaps nothing better illustrated the Bruins’ offseason makeover than the mainstay from a year ago being relegated to a bit player as part of this new ensemble cast.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• refashioning
• remodeling
• renovation
• reshaping
• restoration