transfigure

[ trans-fig-yeror, especially British, -fig-er ]

verb (used with object)

, trans·fig·ured, trans·fig·ur·ing.

1. to change in outward form or appearance; transform.

   Synonyms: renew, transmute

2. to change so as to glorify or exalt.

transfigure

/ trænsˈfɪɡə /

verb

1. to change or cause to change in appearance
2. to become or cause to become more exalted

Derived Forms

• transˈfigurement, noun

Other Words From

• trans·figure·ment noun
• untrans·figured adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of transfigure¹

1250–1300; Middle English transfiguren < Latin trānsfigūrāre to change in shape. See trans-, figure

Word History and Origins

Origin of transfigure¹

C13: from Latin transfigūrāre , from trans- + figūra appearance

Example Sentences

Klagsbrun is known for paintings that flowingly interpret classical myths in which women transfigure into trees or flowers.

From Washington Post

Mostly grouped in sets of two or three, the selected works illustrate how a photograph, painting or drawing can transfigure into a print, or how different versions of the same image can conjure disparate moods.

From Washington Post

So neither polling nor political theory can transfigure the human heart or orient our minds toward the brotherhood of man?

From The Daily Beast

An aureole of something more than human, of something entirely spiritual, seemed to transfigure her loveliness.

From Project Gutenberg

Let her transfigure the hour of disaster into the hour of deeper consecration.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus I will transfigure into my own character every man in the world, who is of the truth, and therefore will hear my voice.

From Project Gutenberg

These are motives of incalculable strength, and they transfigure a man and raise him above his surroundings and even himself.

From Project Gutenberg

Their aim was to conventionalise Nature rather than to transfigure her, and truth was more to them than beauty.

From Project Gutenberg